Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

               It had been over a year; Shadow went back to hero work helping people where he could. When he had time he would go out and adventure for a while. He didn’t go home very often, only to check up on Miles. It was hard to stay still, not moving meant his thoughts would spiral. Back to the ARC, Back to him… He knew it was past time to move on but then he would think about what could have been.

               Shadow’s thoughts are interrupted as he hears the Tornado flying above. He looks up seeing Miles wave to him to get his attention. Waiting to see where the Tornado lands before running in that direction. His brother flying over to track him down meant something happened. And if something has happened, he knew Robotnik had to be involved.

               He reaches the Tornado and sees Miles and Knuckles climb out. Shadow raises his eyebrow at Knuckles for a moment, he’s not usually one to leave the Master Emerald of his own accord. “A surprise to see you Guardian.” Shadow said, “What’s Robotnik up to now?”

               “Have a look.” Miles hands Shadow a thin metal sheet, it looked like some sort of screen. The moment he looks closer at the sheet, it lights up revealing Robotnik in the video.

               “Hello there Heroes! I have finally developed the Ultimate weapon.” Robotnik’s recording said as Shadow lets out an insulted huff. “I’ll be beginning my world conquest in three days’ time. Think you can sop me?” The recording ends with his signature laugh.  

               “What are we going to do Shadow?” Miles asked,

               “The Doctor’s been rather quiet. This must be the reason.” Shadow said, “But if he believes he’s created the Ultimate weapon then we should be there to remind him there’s only one Ultimate Lifeform.” He glances over at Knuckles again, “You tagging along?” Shadow asked as Knuckles gives him a nod.

               “Mighty and Ray are watching the Master Emerald. I tried to ask the Chaotix, but they weren’t in their office.” Knuckles said,

               “Those are your detective friends right?” Miles asked,  

               “Pretty good at being detectives, not great with money.” He chuckles, “Where do we look for Eggman first?”

               “His closest base from here is the one by the beach.” Shadow said, “Let’s get going.”  

               Amy Rose sat on a beach letting out a heavy sigh as she looked at a newspaper clipping with an image of Shadow on it. “Oh Shadow, Where did you run off to?” She let’s out another sigh. A heavy gust of wind pulls the clipping out of her hand taking her by surprise. “Oh no!”

               A young cream-colored rabbit named Cream flies up and grabs the paper before it is lost. A small Chao wearing a red bow named Cheese flying next to her. “Please be more careful Ms. Amy. This is our only clue.” She said handing the newspaper clipping back to her.

               “Chao!”

               “Sorry about that,” Amy lets out an apologetic chuckle. A large purple stripped cat named Big walks up to them.

               “No one has seen Froggy or Chocola.” Big said with a sigh. Amy looks over the newspaper clipping at Shadow’s picture. In the shot it shows the ebony hedgehog running while holding a frog and a Chao. She looks up to see Cream, Cheese and Big look downtrodden.

               “Hey, hey! Cheer up you guys! I’m sure we’ll find them.” Amy said snapping them out of it. “Let’s take action before worrying. C’mon, let’s go find Shadow!” Amy said hyping them up as they all nod and head towards the beach.

               Shadow, Knuckles and Miles began exploring around the beach trying to find Robotnik’s base. “It’s around here somewhere.” Miles looks around, Shadow’s gaze glances over to Knuckles.

               “A bit odd that you decided to help us when you take your job so seriously.” Shadow said as Knuckles lets out a huff.

               “I have my reasons for helping you,” Knuckles said crossing his arms. “But I’m also here for Tails.” Knuckles glances over at Shadow who looked back at him confused.

               “What’s wrong with Prower?” Shadow asked,

               “You Hedgehog. You’ve been distant and he’s worried about you.” Knuckles said, they both glance over seeing Miles focused on looking for Robotnik’s base. “It’s why I came down in the first place. He asked how he could get you to open up. He won’t say it, but he’s afraid one day you won’t come back.”

               “I would never do that.” Shadow snarled at the accusation,

               “I meant if you got hurt and none of us knew.” Knuckles said snarling back out of reflex. The two had always been hot heads and their tempers would clash on occasion. “You have been gone for months. It’s been over a year since…” He stops, seeing Shadow’s quills flair up was not a common occurrence and he knew he needed to say his next words very carefully or Shadow might storm off. “Just… try to be around more. He’s still a kid.”

               Shadow’s quills lower and he adverts his gaze. He knew Knuckles was right, it wasn’t fair to Miles for him to be gone for such long periods of time. “I… I’ll talk to him.” Shadow said,

               “Good.” Knuckles nods,

               “Guys, I found something!” Miles calls out and they go to catch up to him. “Look at that island, there’s a lot of Eggman’s robots patrolling around.”

               “Good work Prower, let’s see if the Doctor is at this location.” Shadow said as they continue forward.  

               The Chaotix unlock their office door and enter. They had gone out for a late lunch and just got back. “Is Charmy grabbing the mail?” The large green Crocodile named Vector asked the small Purple Chameleon named Espio walking beside him.

               “Correct, though I doubt we’ll get anything.” Espio said sitting down.

               “We gotta find some work soon or we won’t make rent.” Vector said.

               “There isn’t much we can do if no one is responding to our adds.” Espio said leaning against a wall while Vector sits down at the desk turning on his headphones bobbing his head to the tunes.

               “It’s here!” Espio hears Charmy’s voice from behind the door as the young Bee bursts through it excitedly. But with all of his excitement he’s unable to stop and slams into Vector causing the box in his hand to go flying into the air. The Purple ninja takes out one of his throwing knifes and uses it to stop the box from falling.

               “What’s wrong with you!” Vector asked the excited Bee sitting back up and fixing the fallen chair.

               “It’s here! It’s here! Work is here!” Charmy cheered.

               “What?” Vector looked surprised and confused as the box Espio had pinned to the wall opened up and a radio falls out landing on his head before he catches it.

               “I trust you are the detectives, so I would like to entrust you with a job.” A synthesized voice said through the radio. “The reward will be yours to take.” Both Vector and Charmy’s eyes brighten at the word, reward. But something didn’t sit right with Espio about this.

               “Hey, don’t tell me you’re accepting this…” Espio argued,

               “Don’t be stupid Espio. We’ll take any job if we’re properly compensated for it. That’s our policy.” Vector said,

               “Yeah! It’s policy!” Charmy repeated.

               “Alright, but I think we should be cautious just in case.” Espio said,

               “We got each other’s backs. Now let’s get going!” Vector said.

               “Aye, aye Sir!” Charmy said,

               “Fine,” Espio followed behind them locking the door to their office on their way out.

               Amy, Cream and Big were looking around the beach in search for Shadow, they had heard vacation goers commenting seeing earths hero earlier. This was their first big lead.

               “Do you think Mr. Shadow will know where Froggy and Chocola are?” Cream asked,

               “Since that picture was the last they have been seen. Shadow it our best bet.” Amy said, “Plus I can get him to marry me.” She giggles happily.

               “Ms. Amy… I don’t think that’s how that works…” Cream said,

               “Froggy would have liked the beach…” Big pouts.

               “Chao!”

               “I noticed it too Cheese, there’s a lot of robots around here.” Cream asked,

               “We might be close to one of Eggman’s bases. Shadow might be somewhere nearby! Let’s go!” Amy cheered running off ahead.

               “Wait for us Ms. Amy!” Cream said as she and Big run after her.

               “This must be the place.” Shadow said as the three heroes approached the ocean base. They continue froward.

               “At least this time it’s not underwater.” Miles said with a chuckle,

               “Can you still not swim?” Knuckles as Shadow subtly flinches. There was no point in learning how to swim on the ARC.

               “Keep your guard up, it looks like there’s an increase of Mech’s ahead… We must be getting close.” Shadow said ignoring the pointed question as he takes out one of the Mechs.

               “Have you ever explored this base before? It looks a little older.” Miles pointed out.

               “I noticed that too, like it’s been on standby until just recently.” Knuckles said, Punching one of the larger robots charging at them.

               “A lot of his bases are like that, each one built for a specific purpose. He had one built for just the creation of Metal.” Shadow said. He was referring to the robot Robotnik built based on himself, Metal Shadow.

               “That’s a robot I don’t want to be seeing any time soon.” Miles said,

               “What do you think this base was built for then?” Knuckles asked,

               “Not sure, there’s a lot more Mech’s than at the usual sites. He could have a vault here that’s being protected.” Shadow said,

               “Should we try to find it?” Miles asked, spin dashing one of the flying bots.  

               “If we see something that looks like a vault we can check it out, but I don’t say we go out of our way to look for it. We’re on a time crunch remember?” Shadow said,

               “Right!” Knuckles and Miles agree as they follow Shadow further into the ocean base.

               “The Sea!” Charmy cheers as the Chaotix get to the beach.

               “So what in the world are we doing all the way out here?” Vector asked the radio.

               “There is a secret base here that has become active. I wish to see if you are worthy of the title of Detectives.” The mysterious voice said,

               “We’re the best detectives out there!” Vector boasted.

               “Very well, within the base is a file I need within Vault two. Find it and I will give you the next coordinates.” The transmission ends.

               “I still don’t like this.” Espio said,

               “Relax! We got this covered!” Charmy said,

               “Yeah! What Charmy said. How hard could it be?” Vector said as they head towards the ocean base.

               “I think we’re on the right path guys!” Amy said excitedly as they walk past troves of destroyed robots through the base.

               “Wow!” Big said,

               “I wonder if this means Eggman is up to something.” Cream said,

               “If he is then MY Shadow will need me! Let’s hurry guys!” Amy said,

               “Doesn’t look like Eggman’s here.” Knuckles said as they see a flying craft lower down towards the three of them.  

               “You just had to say something, didn’t you?” Shadow said as they all year Robotnik laugh.

               “Y… You might as well just give up Heroes. In the end the whole world will see who are the true fools among us.” Robotnik said, After noticing his expression. Shadow could tell that Robotnik was surprised to see them. Was he on his way here to get something?  

               “You’re the only fool here Eggman!” Miles said, Robotnik scowls as he starts to fly off.

               “We won’t let you get away that easily.” Shadow said as they chase after him.

               “You have nowhere to run!” Miles said,

               “Take your defeat like a man!” Knuckles said as both Shadow and Miles give him a look. “What?”

               “I was the one born fifty years ago and even I know not to say things like that…” Shadow said as Knuckles looks flustered,

               “Let’s just get him.” Knuckles said as they continue charging forward dodging the attacks Robotnik was throwing at them.

               “All of you just stay still!” Robotnik complained as he watched them slowly break apart his flying weapon.

               “That’s not going to happen!” Tails said,

               “Fine! Take this then!” He presses a button that causes a pulse to go through the air hitting the young fox.

               “Miles!” Shadow yelled as he sees his little brother falling. He runs towards him warping into the air to grab him then warping to the ground.

               “I’ll just have to come back for it later. Not like it’s going anywhere. Until next time Heroes!” Robotnik said laughing as his craft flies off.

               “Miles? Are you alright?” Shadow said looking worried, the young fox sits up holding his head.

               “I’m okay… just a little dizzy.” He said as Shadow lets out a sigh of relief. “Some sort of energy pulse.”

               “Something to making you disoriented and unable to fly. We’ll need to be more careful.” Shadow said helping his brother to his feet.

               “What do you think he meant by come back for it?” Knuckles asked,

               “Could be whatever he has stored here.” Miles said,

               “I’d say we go look for it but we’re on a time crunch, It looks like Robotnik fled towards the city. We should follow after him before we lose his trail. But after we stop him we’ll come back and find out what else he is hiding.” Shadow said as he glances towards the base before looking back at them. They all nod and head towards the city.

               The Chaotix enter Vault two with no issue. “Rather convenient that all the bots were already destroyed.” Espio said,

               “You’re being paranoid Espio. We should be happy someone did all the heavy lifting for us.” Vector said,

               “And you’re being too lax, this place is dangerous.” Espio said,

               “I think I found it!” Charmy said holding onto a small drive.

               “Hey bud, is your file in a small drive with a logo of a mustached man on it?” Vector asked the radio.

               “Yes! That’s it! Now I need you to follow after Doctor Robotnik. He’s the one behind all of this.” The voice said,

               “Doctor Robotnik?” Espio asked sounding surprised,

               “Who’s that?” Charmy asked,

               “He deems himself a genius, albeit an evil one. I believe Knuckles has faced against him before.” Espio explained,

               “Wait wasn’t that the guy who blew up the moon a year ago?” Vector asked as Espio nods.

               “He’s heading towards the city, head after him!” The voice said,

               “Hey, what’s in Vault one?” Charmy asked as they walked by it.

               “Stay away from that!” The voice yelled causing the three of them to jump. They could tell the voice sounded panicked before composing itself. “T… there are very dangerous chemicals in there. For your safety I suggest you leave that Vault alone.” Espio and Vector give each other a look.

               “Sure boss, whatever you say.” Vector said as the three of them leave the vaults and head towards the city.

               Shadow stops feeling the familiar pull of a Chaos Emerald. “Knuckles,” Shadow looks towards him for confirmation,

               “Yeah, I feel it too.” Knuckles said as Miles looks at the two of them confused,

               “Do you two feel something?” He asked,

               “There’s a Chaos Emerald nearby.” Shadow said,

               “We shout try to find it then,” Mile said looking around. “It could come in handy.”

               “Check behind those rocks.” Knuckles said as they all start searching.

               “I found it!” Miles points out wedged between two rocks. “But I can’t reach it…”

               “Allow me,” Knuckles said pushing the rocks apart with his strength as Miles reaches in and grabs the Emerald before handing it to Shadow.

               “You should hold onto it since you can hide the Emeralds Chaos energy in your quills.” Miles said as Shadow looks at him surprised before letting out a proud huff and taking the Emerald, hiding in his quills.

               “Never cease to impress me Prower.” He gives a gentle smile, “Let’s keep moving.”

               She waited for a while for those three to leave. After waiting months for an opening, who knew so many people would clear her path into Robotnik’s vaults. Rouge the Bat had been working on her off time to gain access to this Vault. She was so through; she even managed to get Robotnik’s key code. No hacking needed, just press in the code. This was her best chance into confirming if her quarry was locked away in vault one.

               “Please be here…” Rouge said to herself as the code unlocks the securely sealed door. Each sound of one of the gears moving increasing her anxiety. What if she was wrong? What if she waisted more time on another false lead?

               The door hisses open as she walks inside, it smelt of dust and harsh chemicals. The sound of bubbling coming from deeper within the darkened vault. The only light illuminating from a console in the center. She slowly walks in looking for any traps. Rouge types in the code again and the room lights up, she gasps seeing the pod in the center, filled with a strange green liquid and floating inside was her prize. An azure furred Hedgehog on a breather and many different wires collecting his vitals.

               “Oh Blue…” She said looking the console over to find how to drain the pod. “The Doc better not have done anything to you like Gerald did…” She finally finds the drain activation and works on putting the system in auto loop so the good Doctor wouldn’t know his treasure had been stolen.

               The pod empties and the unconscious Hedgehog was partially propped up by the back of the pod. Rouge rushes over to him unaware that something else withing the room was waking. A E Unit designated E-123 Omega had awoken form it’s standby mode. It had been in that mode for so long that it took a while for their systems to reactivate.

               Omega’s systems automatically update with their reactivation. It had been four hundred and thirty-two days since their creator Robotnik forced him into standby mode as a guard dog. Omega was not like other Robots, their ability to understand emotions taught them how to have emotions themselves. And after all this time there was only one emotion on his mind… Rage.

               Rouge opens up the pod kneeling next to the Hedgehog, “Let’s get you out of here Hun.” She said taking off the breather and all of the IV’s and scanners. Her large bat ears move to the sound of metal, her head turning towards Omega who had emerged from the shadows. “Crap…” She said as more metallic footsteps approach.

               “RETRIVAL OF SUBJECT TO BE BROUGHT TO MASTER.” One of the two new robots that entered the room said as Omega turns towards them. Before the two robots could react to the much larger robot. Omega’s hands became guns, and they begin shooting the two mech’s with no mercy.

               “DESTROY ROBOTNIK’S MECH’S.” Omega said, destroying all machinery within the room. The top of the pod shatters and Rouge barely managed to protect the Hedgehog’s body with her own. The firing stops. She stays as still as possible worried this Robots rampage will come after them next. The loud metallic footsteps get closer but stop as she hesitantly looks up seeing the Robot hovering over both of them.

               “E… Easy there big fella, We’re not with Robotnik.” Rouge said as Omega straightens, she wasn’t sure how, but she could tell that saying that removed his desire for bloodlust from them. She moves her wings a bit brushing the shards of glass away being mindful of the unconscious hedgehog lying next to her.

               “IDENTITY CONFIRMED AS AGENT ROUGE.” Omega said as Rouge turns towards him surprised, “YOU ARE LISTED AS A POTENTAL ENEMY TO DOCTOR ROBOTNIK.”

               “Are you searching through Robotnik’s files about me?” Rouge asked,

               “AFFIRMATIVE.” Omega said, “IT STATES YOU ARE GOOD AT TREASURE HUNTING AND TRACKING DOWN INFORMATION. I REQUIRE INFORMATION.”

               “S… Sure thing Hun, what do you…” Rouge stops feeling the Hedgehog in her arms move slightly, “Blue? Hey, can you hear me?” She calls out as he lets out a light moan before his eyes start to slowly open.

               “Why’s my mouth feel like cotton?” The Hedgehog mumbled as Rouge fights back happy tears before hugging him. The physical contact causes the blue Hedgehog to stiffen unsure what to do.

               “How you feeling Hun?” Rouge asked letting go of the hug smiling at him gently.

               “Bit sluggish…” He said sitting up as she inches back a bit to give him some room.

               “That should go away after you move around a bit.” Rouge said,

               “Um…” He scratches the back of his head feeling uncomfortable for having to ask. “Do I know you?” He asked as she flinches to the question. “Actually… Who am I?”         

Chapter Text

               Rouge just stares at the azure furred Hedgehog for a moment partially stunned by his words and unsure how to answer them. He blinks at her a few times before tilting his head. “Was it something I said?” He turns towards the robot,

               “VITALS SHOW DISTRESS.” Omega said,

               “Oh uh… sorry if I upset you.” He said letting out an uncomfortable chuckle as she shakes her head.

               “It’s not your fault Hun.” She smiles at him her voice sounding shaky.

               “So… Do you know me?” He asked as she nods,

               “Your name is Sonic the Hedgehog and I’m Rouge the Bat.” She said,

               “And big, tall and looming?” He points his thumb towards Omega.

               “UNIT E-123 OMEGA.” They answered,

               “Can I call you Omega?” Sonic askes as there’s a pause.

               “I WILL ALLOW THIS” They said,

               “Cool, so next question.” Sonic said as he starts trying to stand up, Rouge notices his legs are shaky and reaches out to help him, but he flinches away.

               “Sorry, I was just wanting to make sure you didn’t fall over.” Rouge said,

               “Thanks but I think I’ll manage; I get that we knew each other and all but I don’t think I’m a touchy person.” Sonic said balancing himself to stand straight. She nods as he places his hands on his hips and looks around seeing the entire room littered in bullet casings and robot pieces. “Where are we?”

               “The remains of Robotnik’s vault. He’s been keeping you in here.” Rouge said,

               “How long have I been out for?” Sonic asked as her ears lower,

               “APROXIMATLY FOUR HUNDRED AND THIRTY-TWO DAYS.” Omega said.

               “Whoa! Wait what? That’s a serious amount of time to take a nap.” Sonic said,

               “You weren’t napping Hun… you were being experimented on…” Rouge was hesitant to say. Sonic’s eyes widen in horror as if he had been told the worst news possible before turning into a glare,

               “This Robot what’s it guy… is he why I can’t remember anything?” Sonic asked,

               “He could be.” Rouge said,

               “Where is he? I’d like to have a word with him.” Sonic hissed,

               “I DESIRE TO KNOW HIS WHEREABOUTS SO THAT I MAY CRUSH HIM INTO DUST.” Omega said as they both look at the armored mech,

               “Alright, Alright, I think I heard someone say the Robotnik was spotted in the nearby city.” Rouge said, “Why don’t we all go find him together? We might have more luck that way. Especially since we all have a bone to pick with him.”

               “I don’t see a problem.” Sonic looks up at Omega,

               “I WILL ACCOMPANY YOU FOR NOW ONLY TO MAKE SURE YOU DO NOT GET IN MY WAY.” Omega said,

               “Excuse me?” Sonic huffed looking insulted,

               “YOUR VITALS ARE STILL WEAK IF YOU EXERT YOURSELF YOU WILL BECOME A HINDERANCE.” Omega said,

               “Alright you two let’s just take a deep breath.” Rouge stepped in between them noticing Sonic was looking more and more angry.

               “I DO NOT REQUIRE OXYGEN.” Omega said as Sonic’s taken aback by the comment before he begins to laugh.

               “Okay, okay, that was funny.” Sonic said as he’s about to walk forward realizing he wasn’t wearing shoes. “Well that might be an issue…” He looks down at the shards of glass all over the floor.

               “I’ll see if we can find you some shoes and gloves.” Rouge said as she looks around. She knew she couldn’t leave Sonic alone until they found out how to get his memories back. While she goes through the boxes, she internally debates if she should tell a certain striped Hedgehog. No, all of this might become overstimulating for Sonic and if she gets him involved, he may not leave a trace of Robotnik for them to interrogate.

               Omega stares at Sonic remembering what the other bots stated before they maliciously destroyed them. They goes through their records for the order and there is was. An order to bring Project: S to him immediately. Sonic notices that Omega was staring.

               “Something you wanting to say?” Sonic asked raising an eyebrow.

               “NEGATIVE.” Omega said as Rouge walks back over with some gloves, socks and red shoes with a white band and gold buckle.

               “Here you go Hun.” She hands them to him.   

               “Hey, thanks red’s my favorite color.” He smiles as he puts everything one. Rouge doesn’t comment about what he said, perhaps being around more things might jog his memories. “How do I look.” He gives a little pose and a grin.

               “Lovely,” Rouge said with a wink as Sonic gives her a wink back.

“Now, let’s go find us a Robot man!” Sonic said,

               “It’s Robotnik dear.” Rouge said as the new trio heads off.

               Shadow, Miles, and Knuckles make it to the city and look around. “It appears the doctor’s been busy. I passed through here a few days ago and there weren’t this many of his robots walking around.” Shadow said,

               “Do you think he already has the city under his control?” Miles asked,

               “Then we smash any mech’s that get in our way!” Knuckles said slamming his namesakes together.

               “I believe this place holds the energy plant.” Miles said,

               “Energy plant?” Knuckles said as Shadow points out large red tubes,

               “A place where the other parts of the city get their electricity from.” Shadow explained, he understood that living on a secluded island the majority of his life he’s still not used to technology. Knuckles had been introduced into the world even later than he was.

               “What’s that bot doing?” Knuckles pointed out seeing a larger robot holding onto one of the red tubes. They go over and destroy the mech and a path appears in front of them. Miles looks over at the area the mech was previously holding onto.

               “I think it was sucking all of the power out of the road.” Miles said,

               “So Robotnik it syphoning energy from the city. We need to figure out what he’s trying to power up.” Shadow said as they all nod going forward. Robotnik wanting large amounts of power must have to do with this Ultimate weapon he bragged on about.

               “Ms. Amy, are you sure this was the way Shadow went?” Cream asked as they enter the bustling city.  

               “Of course! After all, Shadow and I are held together by the red string of fate.” Amy said with hearts in her eyes,

               “I don’t see any string.” Big said,

               “You aren’t supposed to see it Big.” Amy huffs, “Let’s keep moving, this place it huge and it’ll take us forever to find Shadow.”

               “I feel a little dizzy being around such big buildings.” Cream said,

               “Chao.”

               “Froggy! Where are you?” Big called out. “Hm? There seem to be some bad robots over there.” He points out piles of destroyed robots.

               “Good find Big! We must be getting close to Shadow now!” Amy cheered. “We should hurry before they get away!”

               The Chaotix arrive in the city ready to continue following their strange employers orders. “The city below you is slowly yet unknowingly becoming subject to Robotnik’s control. Can you handle it?”

               “Even if we want to now, do you think we can back out of this?” Espio asked looked at Vector,

               “Do we even have a choice?” Vector asked back, “We either do this or find a new office.”

               “Because the rent is so high.” Charmy said,

               “I want you to destroy as many of Robotnik’s robots as you can within the city, he’s trying to steal energy.” The voice said,

               “Why is he stealing the energy?” Espio asked,

               “I’m not sure but you’ll also need to stop some robots in the plant who have hacked into their security giving Robotnik control.” The voice said,

               “Well fellas, let’s get to work.” Vector said with a heavy sigh as the trudge along forward.

               Rouge, Omega and Sonic arrive in the city at a slower pace giving Sonic ample time to stretch out his legs. She was watching over him closely making sure he didn’t overdo it, but Sonic’s hardly noticed as his eyes sparkled to all the new lights and sounds. She couldn’t help but slightly chuckle at his child-like excitement.

               “What is this place?” Sonic asked,

               “It’s a city, this one specifically is an energy plant that is known for being self-running.” Rouge explained,

               “Cool.” Sonic said pretending to understand a word she just said,

               “Speaking of running, there’s plenty of room here for you to stretch your legs,” Rouge suggested pointing at the open pathways,

               “Uh, am I the running type?” Sonic asked,

               “Some might say the fastest.” She smiles. “Try running as fast as you can to the next platform.” She said pointing it out to him.

               “Sure.” Sonic chuckles before rolling his eyes. He takes a running position before dashing forward faster that he realized as he’s already to the other platform looking back at Rouge stunned. He could feel the spark of adrenaline running through his body filling him with an energy he didn’t think was possible.

               He lets out a laugh before running back over to Rouge and Omega. “Holy crap! That feels amazing!” Sonic said excitedly.

               “And it doesn’t look like you had any trouble stopping either. So you still have your muscle memory.” Rouge said,

               “SUGGESTION, WE GO THROUGHOUT THE CITY AND DESTROY ROBOTNIK’S ROBOTS.” Omega said,

               “Do I know how to fight too?” He asked as Rouge nods,

               “Though I feel someone only suggested that as an excuse to destroy things.” Rouge said placing a hand on her hip giving Omega a look.

               “AFFIRMATIVE. ALL ROBOTNIK’S ROBOTS MUST BE OBLITERATED.” They said,

               “Fine, fine but we need to grab blue something to eat first.” Rouge said hearing Sonic’s stomach growl.

               “Oh that’s why it keeps making noises.” Sonic chuckles, “Man I got a lot to figure out.”

               “Don’t worry Hun, we’ll find the Doctor and get him to bring back your memories.” Rouge said,

               “AND THEN WE EVICERATE.” Omega said, following them into the city towards one of the nearby food stalls.

               Shadow stops hearing the sound of footsteps running up behind them. He turns around to see Amy Rose, Cream the Rabbit and Big the Cat approaching them. “I finally found you! My darling!” Amy said with a smile,

               “Rose? What are you doing here?” Shadow said looking very surprised to see her, albeit a little panicked.

               “This time I’ll get you to marry me!” She said, as Shadow, Knuckles and Miles let out a sigh,

               “Cut it out Rose, we do not have time for this.” Shadow said,

               “W… we’re really busy right now…” Miles said as Amy summons her red hammer,

               “You just had to look like boyfriend material to her didn’t you Shadow.” Knuckles teased, Shadow snarls at him.

               “Mr. Shadow have you seen Chocola?” Cream asked,

               “Chao!”

               “Or froggy?” Big asked,

               “What? No, I don’t’ know anything about Froggy or Chocola.” Shadow said,

               “But you were the last one to see them.” Cream said taking out the newspaper clipping and walking over to him. She hands it over; Shadow looks at the image intently.

               “I apologize Cream, but I do not remember when this happened.” Shadow said handing her back the newspaper clipping. “Now if you’ll excuse us, we need to go.” Shadow quickly grabs Miles and Knuckles’ wrists and warps the three of them away.

               “No fair! That’s cheating!” Amy cried out.

               “He said he didn’t know where that was…” Cream said looking sad.

               “But then where is Froggy?” Big asked,

               “I don’t know Big… now we’re back to square one… And I didn’t get Shadow to marry me…” Amy pouts.

               “Let’s not give up Ms. Amy. Let’s keep moving forward.” Cream said,

               “Chao!”

               “What is it Cheese?” Cream asked as the young Chao flies over to the side of the railway and points down. The three of them look over the ledge and see a Chaos Emerald resting on a piece of metal that was not attached properly.

               “What’s that doing there?” Amy asked as Cheese flies down and grabs it. He flies back up and hands Cream the Emerald.

               “Chao are drawn to Chaos energy. I wonder if we should give this to Mr. Shadow.” Cream said,

               “That’s a great idea! And while we’re looking for Shadow we can look for new clues about Cheese and Chocola.” Amy said as they all nod in agreement and head in the direction the believe Shadow and friends were originally heading towards.    

               “I don’t think you’ve ever run away from Amy that fast before.” Miles said as they continue through the city,

               “I don’t have time to argue with Rose’s fantasies,” Shadow said, “That girl needs to realize it’s not going to happen.”  He lets out a huff as he notices Miles was making a conflicted face. “Out with it Prower.”

               “Huh?” Miles looked confused,

               “You’re making your, I want to say something but I’m not sure if I should, face.” Shadow said, “You can always tell me what’s on your mind.”

               “So can you…” Miles mumbled,

               “What?” Shadow raised an eyebrow now sure why his brother was mumbling,

               “So can you…Y… You’re allowed to talk to me too…” Miles said looking away worried Shadow might storm off. But Shadow stops walking and turns towards him.

               “I’m sorry that I’ve been so distant… There’s been a lot on my mind, and I’ve been having trouble putting words to my thoughts.” Shadow said,

               “About Sonic?” Miles asked as he sees his older brothers hands flinch at the mention of his name. Shadow lets out a long sigh,

               “Yes…” Shadow said, “Thank you for letting me know I can talk to you… but I’m not sure I’m ready quite yet…”

               “That’s okay, I just wanted you to know that I’m always here to listen.” Miles smiles giving his big brother a hug as Knuckles lets out a huff,

               “Now that you’ve had a heart to heart we should keep moving before Amy finds our scent.” Knuckles said as they both nod.

               “We’ll need to keep an eye out for Metal now too.” Shadow said,

               “Huh?” Knuckles looks at him confused as they walk forward,

               “That picture Cream handed me, that wasn’t me, that was Metal. The angle of the photo makes it look like me, but I could tell by the clawed hands it was him.” Shadow said,

               “That’s why you told then you didn’t remember.” Tails said,

               “We don’t need any of them captured when we’re trying to take down Robotnik.” Shadow said,

               “Then what are we waiting for?” Knuckles said as they pick up the pace.

               “I wonder why Robo what’s it is stealing all that energy?” Sonic asked placing his hands behind his back while thinking.

               “We can ask him when we confront him.” Rouge said,

               “Hey if we get to fight more I’m down, that was a lot of fun.” Sonic smiles,

               “I ALSO ENJOYED THE AMOUNT OF DESTRUCTION IN OUR WAKE.” Omega said,

               “You really are a walking arsenal huh.” Sonic chuckles, Omega doesn’t hear anything, but Sonic can hear the happy beeps coming from the robot as if unable to convey the emotion into words.

               “My intel told me we’re on the right path. Robotnik was spotted around the casino district.” Rouge said,

               “Intel?” Sonic tilts his head as Rouge flinches, should she tell him who she works for? Would it trigger anything?

               “I work for the government as a secret agent.” Rouge said as Sonic blinks.

               “What’s the secret?” Sonic asked as Rouge tries not to laugh. Sonic’s face flushes for a moment embarrassed at her reaction.

               “It means I do a lot of things that people aren’t allowed to know about.” She winks at him as he calms down.

               “UNIDENTIFIED TARGETS AHEAD.” Omega points out as they see a Crocodile, Bee and Chameleon looking around.  

               “Great, just what we need, troublemakers.” Rouge said recognizing them as the three that entered one of the other vault before her. “Just who are those three?” She storm over towards them; Sonic looks at Omega confused and shrugs as they mimic his moves before both following after her.

               “What’s up Espio?” Vector asked as Espio senses a presence drawing closer.

               “Who are you?” Espio quickly turns around towards Rouge them as she places her hands on her hips annoyed.

               “I’m asking the questions, who are you three and what are you doing here?” Rouge said,

               “Who the heck is this chick?” Vector asked, Rouge’s eye twitches,

               “An adversary of our employer perhaps?” Espio said,

               “Don’t act like you’re not hiding something! Did Robotnik send you?” Rouge said,

               “Robotnik? No, we’re detectives working for our client.” Vector said,

               “He asked us to stop Robotnik’s attempt to take over the city.” Charmy said,

               “You didn’t have to tell them that much…” Vector lets out a sigh,

               “Looks like they are doing their own thing.” Sonic said trying to calm Rouge down, he wasn’t quite sure why she’d gotten so defensive all of a sudden.

               “Yes, just a misunderstanding.” Espio said looking the Hedgehog up and down, he slightly flinches at the chameleon’s stare feeling uncomfortable.

               “EGGMAN IS OUR TARGET DO NOT INTERFERE.” Omega threatened,

               “Maybe you guys should bounce, I think my friends are itching for a fight.” Sonic said trying to diffuse the situation.

               “We shall heed your warning.” Espio said as the Chaotix start to walk away.

               “Yo… What was that about?” Sonic asked as Rouge pointed up her nose like she did nothing wrong,

               “I didn’t like the look of their faces.” Rouge said. The truth was that she feared they would tell Robotnik about Sonic’s location and come after him. She understood her emptions got the better of her, but she just got her partner back. Granted, he doesn’t remember anything but that didn’t change that she owed him. And she wasn’t going to lose him again.

               “Weird reason to pick a fight but whatever,” Sonic said, he figured she wasn’t going to tell him the real reason even if he prodded.

               “THE CROCODILE CARRIED ROBOTNIK TECH ON HIM.” Omega said,

               “I knew they were up to no good!” Rouge hissed,

               “Uh…” Sonic gestures towards Omega, “Aren’t we also walking around with his tech?”

               “AFIRMATIVE.”

               “And aren’t we here to hunt down Robotnik?” Sonic asked,

               “AND DESTROY ALL OF HIS CREATIONS. WITH FIRE.” Omega said,

               “Right, then we’re wasting time on this. For all we know he could be getting away.” Sonic said as Rouge notices his foot tapping impatiently.

               “No, you’re right, it’s starting to get late. We should keep moving.” Rouge said leading them forward. Sonic followed after her cautiously still unsure about why she had become so hostile.  

               “That sure was odd…” Vector said as Espio nods in agreement.  

               “That Blue Hedgehog… Something about him seemed familiar…” Espio said as they hear the radio beep,

               “Did you say Blue Hedgehog?” The voice asked sounding shocked.

               “Yeah, with an angry bat lady and a large robot.” Charmy said,

               “How did he escape?” Espio and Vector heard the voice mumble.

               “Escape?” Espio said,

               “Don’t worry about it! I would steer clear of them; they are very dangerous.” The voice said,

               “Whatever you say.” Vector said turning off the radio. “Now that, was weird.” He said,

               “Indeed, Perhaps we should keep an eye out for this blue Hedgehog’s back,” Espio said as Vector nods before turning the radio back on.

               “Did you turn off the Radio?” The voice instantly asked,

               “Na! We were just going through a tunnel.” Vector said,

               “Well, Robotnik is heading towards the Casino District. See what he’s up to!” They all let out a sigh and head in their informed direction.

Chapter Text

               Shadow lets out an annoyed sigh as they enter the casino district. It was a place he would rather avoid because the bright lights and loud music were overstimulating to his heightened senses. “Are you going to be okay Shadow?” Miles asked his brother worried for him. He knew Shadow didn’t like places like this.

               “I’ll live, but let’s get through here quickly. Are you sure you saw Robotnik go this way Knuckles?” Shadow asked as Knuckles nods,

               “I saw that dumb craft he’s always flying in.” Knuckles said as they walk through the casino. All the buildings were heavily decorated in neon lights and casino games. It didn’t help that there were a lot of people walking around. Shadow began to worry that they would get notices and people would start asking for autographs again forcing them to be stuck here longer.

               “Keep an eye on the sky and keep going.” Shadow said lowering his head trying to look less noticeable.

               “Should we find you a disguise? Mr. Hero.” Knuckles teases as Shadow lets out a huff.

               “I will throw you off one of these buildings Guardian.” Shadow said,

               “I’d like to see you try.” Knuckles challenged,

               “Maybe we should focus on pushing forward.” Miles got in between trying to get them to focus. They both let out a huff and continue moving through the casino.

               “Now this is very important, I need you to collect the contents of the vault from within the casino.”  The Chaotix’ employer said as they all give each other another look.

               “We’re detectives, not common thieves.” Vector said,

               “The contents of that vault will save lives! Try getting through without getting spotted.” The voice said,

               “I wanna play! I wanna play!” Charmy said attempting to fly off to play the casino games but Vector grabs him before he could.

               “Absolutely not Charmy! We can’t afford to lose any money.” Vector said,

               “But it looks fun!” Charmy whined as Espio and Vector let out a sigh.

               “Even if it looks fun this place it extremely dangerous. There are Robotnik bots around this place too.” Espio said,

               “Do you think he controls the Casino?” Vector asked,

               “He might, which would explain why our employer wants what’s in that vault.” Espio said as they all enter the Casino making sure Robotnik’s robots don’t spot them.

               Amy, Cream and Big head into the Casino. Amy lets out a heavy sigh dragging a little behind as Cream slows down to walk next to her. “Ms. Amy… I was thinking… maybe there was a reason why he ran away. Maybe Mr. Shadow needed to…”

               “Needed to do WHAT?” Amy interrupted her voice sounding stern and angry.

               “N…Nothing! It’s nothing…” Cream said chuckling, she forgot how scary Amy could be when angry.

               “I need to clear my mind of all that, we need to find Shadow so we can give him the Chaos Emerald. Then he’ll have to marry me!” Amy giggled.

               “Froggy would have liked all the pretty colors…” Big pouted,

               “Chao…”

               “I agree Cheese, I hope we find them soon.” Cream said,

               Sonic, Rouge and Omega approach the casino. Rouge quickly notices how uncomfortable Sonic looks with all the people, lights, and noises. Anytime someone got too close his quills would raise defensively, almost frightened. This all might be too much for him.

               Before she could say anything Omega walks ahead of Sonic, Their broad armored shoulders pushing people out of the way giving Sonic more room. She grins at Omega, impressed at how quickly they found a solution to Sonic’s discomfort.

               “I don’t think I like this place.” Sonic said with a chuckle.

               “We’ll see if we can find any clues about Robotnik and move on.” Rouge said,

               “MULTIPLE HOSTILES DETECTED TWO HUNDRED METERS AHEAD. INITIATE BATTLE MODE.” Omega charges ahead as Sonic follows after him.

               “Oi! You two slow down!” Rouge said chasing after them. “Don’t leave me behind!” After some time she manages to catch up to them seeing a group of destroyed robots. “You two need a hobby.” She huffs,

               “Feel destroying robots could be a hobby.” Sonic said,

               “DESTROYING ROBOTNIK’S ROBOTS IS MY PASSION.” Omega said.

               “Think I see another group up there.” Sonic points out to Omega.

               “AFFIRMATIVE.” Omega responded,

               “Race you there!” Sonic said excitedly running ahead,

               “Sonic wait!” Rouge called out but he was already out of earshot, “He’s going to give me an ulcer!” She groaned as she and Omega follow after him.

               “ROUGE.”

               “Yes?” She asked,

               “ANALISIS SHOWS HEIGHTENED STRESS LEVELS WHEN SONIC ENGAGES ENEMIES. WHY?” Omega asked,

               “It’s called worrying Hun,” She said,

               “SONIC HAS SHOWN COMBAT PROWES WHEN ENGAGED IN BATTLE.” Omega said,

               “Yes, but it only takes one mistake…” Rouge said,

               “YOU FEAR ROBOTNIK WILL TAKE HIM.” Omega said as Rouge nods,

               “Yes… After all he’s been through he deserves to be free more than anything. But knowing you have his back alleviates a bit of my worries.” Rouge winks at him as she hears odd beeps as if processing that information. That she trusts him.

               “Hey! I’m already done what took you two so long.” Sonic said waiting for them to catch up, his foot tapping impatiently.

               “We don’t have super speed Blue, You gotta slow down a little or Omega may blow a gasket if you don’t save them anything to fight.” Rouge jokes,

               “IT IS TRUE.”  Omega said as Sonic chuckles,

               “Okay, I’ll try not to go too far ahead. But can you blame me?” Sonic said as Rouge shakes her head,

               “No, I really can’t.” She said as they continue forward.

               Shadow rubs his temples as they continue forward. He had far beyond reached his limit of being overstimulated and he was struggling to see straight. “Shadow, you’re not looking so good.” Knuckles said noticing the Hedgehog’s Chaos energy fluctuating, almost as if reaching out for something.

               “There hasn’t been any sign of Robotnik he must have moved on. We should find a place to rest, we haven’t stopped since this morning.” Miles said, “Perhaps there’s a hotel…”

               “I’d rather push through and rest outside of this area…” Shadow said,

               “He’s right, I don’t think I’d be able to rest in a place like this either.” Knuckles said,

               “Okay, then let us lead and you try to take it easy.” Miles said as Shadow reluctantly nods knowing that look on his younger brothers face. He does as he’s told and follows them taking a steady pace. Being the Ultimate lifeform gave him many advantages in battle. But the Professor did not train him how to block out everything when it became overstimulating. How could they have known the future would be so bright and loud.   

               While taking the slower pace his mind started to wander. Back to the ARC. There were a few areas inside that were lit just a brightly and he avoided them too. The last bright place was the hallway with…

               That was the first time he had absorbed energy from him… There were no words to describe the feeling of his Chaos energy entering and melding with his own. He liked that sensation… but would never feel that way again…

               “Shadow?” Miles called out getting his attention as Shadow looks up surprised,

               “I’m alright, let’s keep going.” Shadow said avoiding both his brother and the Guardian’s worried gaze.  

               The Chaotix sneak into the vault, all proud of not being seen. Creeping inside to see only one item inside and what they see takes them all aback for a moment. A Chaos Emerald.

               “So Robotnik was hiding a Chaos Emerald.” Espio said,

               “Is this what we’re supposed to take?” Charmy asked,

               “Seeing as it’s the only thing in here, yeah.” Vector said quickly swiping it and they walk out of the vault. “It worries me that he had this.”

               “I agree,” Espio said,

               “Was it there? Did you find it?” The voice asked,

               “Yeah… we got it…” Vector was hesitant to say.

               “Now you must head towards Robotnik’s next base in the mines.” The voice said,

               “Now you want us to go to mines? What do you need there?” Vector asked almost annoyed.

               “I’ll explain after you are out of the casino, too many eyes and ears.” The voice said,

               “I’m starting to get a bad feeling.” Espio said,

               “Same, but I think sticking through would be safer than backing out now…” Vector said as they all nod in agreement. Whoever their Employer was, they were sure were up to no good.

               Omega led the three into an area with less people. Sonic letting out a sigh of relief for having an open area. “Yeah… I liked that sandy place better…” Sonic said stretching.

               “The beach?” Rouge asked,

               “Yeah that.” Sonic said,

               “SCANNERS SHOW HOVERING CRAFT APPROACHING” Omega said as they all look up and see a craft with Robotnik sitting inside.

               “Doctor!” Rouge said as Sonic double takes the man in the craft.

               “That’s the guy?” Sonic asked not sounding impressed. Looking at him floating in the air like that, he almost looked like an egg.

               “AFFIRMATIVE,” Omega answered.

               “How did you get out?” Robotnik asked looking at Sonic before moving his gaze to Rouge. “Still sneaking into places you shouldn’t I see.”

               “I’m the type to steal treasures from the underserving.” She winks and Sonic blushes for a moment. Was she calling him a treasure?

               “And you, Omega! You’re supposed to guard him not let him free! How dare you defy your creator!” Robotnik said, Sonic was starting to get annoyed with all this talk about him like he’s not even there. Like he doesn’t get a say.  

               “Oi! Eggman!” Sonic said getting his attention, the Doctor’s eye twitched to the insulting nickname. Rouge can’t help but hold back a chuckle. “Stop talking like I’m not here! Now tell me what you did to my memories!” He demanded.

               “You’re memories?” Robotnik repeated looking confused before he ponders for a moment. “Heh, did these two tell you I took your memories? Now why would I do that to my Grandfathers creation?” He said as Sonic looks even more confused. Robotnik’s craft floats lower as he makes eye contact with Sonic. He looked at him with an apologetic expression. “I was keeping you in there so you could heal. How do you know that these two didn’t steal your memories?”

               “W… What?” Sonic said,

               “Why you!” Rouge hissed,

               “I could help you get your memories back if you want.” Robotnik grins, “How much has she told you about who you are? As the grandson of your creator I could help you find the information.” He holds out his hand to Sonic. “Come with me and I’ll answer all of your questions.” Sonic takes a step back from the Doctor feeling very conflicted. He never thought those he was traveling with could be deceiving him. Now he wasn’t so sure.

               Before Sonic could make a decision, Omega lifts their hands and starts shooting at Robotnik forcing him and the craft to recoil away from Sonic. “Why you!” Robotnik said,

               “CONSIDER THIS MY RESIGNATION.” Omega said,

               “You stupid bot!” Robotnik said as he presses a button on his craft and more of his bots appear. “Destroy the interlopers. But bring me that Hedgehog alive!” He said as he starts flying off.

               “Wait!” Sonic yelled annoyed, “Why did you do that?” Sonic turns towards Omega but they do not respond.

               “Let’s get rid of these guys first and then we can go after him.” Rouge said, she quickly noticed he wasn’t making eye contact with her. Omega had already begun taking out any bot’s that attempted to approach them as Sonic runs up and takes out any that get past his barrage of bullets while Rouge kept a very close eye on Sonic.

               Knuckles and Miles finally manage to guide Shadow out of that overwhelming casino. Shadow takes a deep breath feeling instantly relieved. “Feeling any better?” Miles asked as Shadow nods,

               “Yes,” Shadow gave him a nod. “Thank you for the assistance,”

               “Hey, look.” Knuckles points up seeing Robotnik’s craft leaving the casino and heading towards the mountains. “Told you I saw him.”

               “He has another base within the mountains, I bet that’s where he’s heading next.” Shadow said,

               “I say we still rest for the night.” Miles suggested as Shadow nods. He was already feeling better however, his friends were not built to endure long journeys without rest,

               “I agree, we all deserve a break.” Shadow said as they find a place to rest for the evening. Shadow keeping an eye out on the mountains for and activity from Robotnik. But his gaze kept going back towards the Casino, he couldn’t put his figure on it. But it felt like he missed something.

               Rouge finished off the last robot with a heavy sigh, kicking the robots remains away from her boots. She notices Sonic still looking distant. “Tell me what’s on your mind Blue. I can’t help if you don’t tell me what’s going on.”

               “Was what he said true?” Sonic asked,

               “Which part?” Rouge asked, she steps closer but not close enough for him to feel crowded.

               “Was I… created?” Sonic asked. Rouge hesitated, unsure how much to tell him.

               “DESIGNATION, PROJECT S. CREATED BY GERALD ROBOTNIK ON THE SPACE COLONY ARC. KNOWN FOR UNMATCHED CONNECTION TO CHAOS ENERGY.” Omega explained, “NO FURTHER INFORMATION DUE TO FILES ON THE ARC BEING ENCRIPTED UNDER A NEW PASSWORD.” Rouge doesn’t show the relief on her face. She hadn’t told anyone that after she changed the files on the Space Colony ARC that she went ahead and changed the password so that Robotnik could not get any information about Sonic… or Shadow.

               “I wanted to see if your memories would come back naturally like your muscle memory has.” Rouge said. “It’s a lot of information and I didn’t want to overwhelm you.”

               “And the part about you being the ones who took my memories?” Sonic asked,

               “ROUGE THE BAT IS KNOWN FOR INFULTRATING AND FINDING INFORMATION ALONG WITH TREASURE HUNTING. SHE DOES NOT HAVE THE MEDICAL BACKGROUNG TO ALTER MEMORIES. AND I AM A ROBOT.” Omega said as Sonic rubs the back of head feeling a little guilty for doubting them.

               “I’m sorry Hun, that all must have been very confusing. But I’ll answer any questions I can about you. All you have to do is ask.” Rouge smiles softly.

               “I mean… I could have asked for more information sooner. Guess I was just going with the wind.” He chuckles.

               “That’s not a bad thing. But let’s keep moving while we talk before more bots show up.” Rouge said,

               “LET THEM COME!.” Omega said,

               “No Omega, she’s right. We gotta keep moving if we want to catch up to Eggman.” Sonic said as they all continue to walk forward. “Okay first question, what’s Chaos energy?”

               “IT IS AN UNSTABLE ENERGY THAT CAN DEFY NORMAL LAWS OF SCIENCE.” Omega explained,

               “Probably why it’s called ‘Chaos’ energy.” Sonic chuckles, “But what’s that got to do with me?”

               “You have the ability to tap into it. It’s where your speed comes from. Your body naturally creates its own Chaos energy instead of pulling the natural Chaos energy flowing through the earth.” Rouge said, part of her hoped talking through some of this information would help him remember.  

               “Sounds impressive. Wish I remembered how to control it.” Sonic said, “Next question… Could Eggman help me get my memories back?”

               “I don’t have a solid answer about that. The look on his face made it seem like he was surprised that you couldn’t remember. And the other information was to confuse you into going with him.” Rouge pondered.

               “The whole… Bring me that Hedgehog alive, thing?” Sonic asked jokingly trying to mimic his voice, “Definitely rude that he kept treating my like I belong to him…” He crosses his arms.

               “Sonic, I know this is a lot and you are second guessing who you can trust right now but try not to go too far away from us. Now that Robotnik knows that you’re out free he may try to capture you and put you back into stasis.” Rouge said,

               His vision looked distant. The thought of being locked away again brought flashes of people wearing white coats with sharp objects and needles poking him and prodding him. He felt trapped… alone… his body began to tremble. They both see Sonic’s quills rise defensively. “Blue? Hey, what’s happening?” She asked,

               “SCANS INDICATE HIGH LEVELS OF STRESS.” Omega said looking Sonic over.  

               “No… Stop…” Sonic covers his head still cowering the flashes becoming more disorienting falling to his knees trying desperately to block it all out.

               “Sonic?” Rouge rushes in front of him kneeling down. “Try to focus on me,” She didn’t know how to help. She could only assume he was remembering something that would have rather been forgotten.

               Sonic looks up at Rouge, but she was not the one he saw in front of him. A young girl with blonde hair and blue eyes wearing a blue dress, she smiles at him and a wave of comfort came from her. She made him feel safe, the only one who wouldn’t hurt him. He lunges into Rouge’s unsuspecting arms holding her tightly.

               “I have you.” Rouge held him tightly trying to be cautious of his sharp quills.

               “STRESS LEVELS DECREASING.” Omega said as Rouge lets out a sigh of relief feeling the frightened Hedgehog in her arms relax. She pets his head as the touches lull him to sleep.

               “Ma… ria…” Sonic whimpered before falling asleep. She’s surprised to hear him say that name, but this could be a good sign, he may now remember.

               “SCANS INDICATE LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS.” Omega said,

               “Oh blue… We’ll fix this, I promise.” Rouge said as Omega kneels in front of her holding out their massively large hand.

               “I WILL CARRY HIM; WE SHOULD KEEP MOVING.” They said as Rouge looks at them surprised,

               “That’s the second time you’ve taken me off guard Omega.” Rouge let’s out an impressed chuckle. She lifts him and places him into Omega’s clawed hands. Again she’s surprised to see how cautions Omega is with Sonic. Just what kind of Robot has this amount of in-depth emotions? “Let’s get going, I don’t want Robotnik getting the jump on us.”

               “SENSORS INDICATE ROBOTNIK’S CRAFT HEADDED TOWARDS THE MOUNTAINS.” Omega said,

               “Lead the way Hun.” She said as they continue forward towards their target.

Chapter Text

               There’s a loud groan that leaves Sonic as he feels the metal shift beneath him. He didn’t want to get up yet, his head was throbbing. But how was he supposed to sleep with all this movement. “What’s it take to get some sleep around here?” He grumbles sitting up rubbing his eyes. The movement stops as he realizes that Omega has been carrying him. Wait, he didn’t remember falling asleep.

               “Hey there Blue, how ya feeling?” Rouge asked. Sonic stretches with a yawn before Omega lowers his hand so he may climb down.

               “My head hurts a bit. Weren’t we in a casino?” Sonic scotches out of Omega’s hand and looks around. There wasn’t a skyscraper in sight, only cliffsides and train rails.

               “YOU HAVE BEEN INCAPACITATED FOR THE LAST 6.25 HOURS.” Omega said,

               “I don’t remember going to sleep.” He chuckles,

               “What’s the last thing you remember?” Rouge asked,

               “Uh, We were talking about Chaos energy and how rude Eggface was, acting like I’m his property.” Sonic said with a huff as Rouge tries to hide the frown. So he didn’t remember. “Why did something happen?”

               “YOU BEGAN TO ACT ERRATICALLY AND THEN FELL UNCONSCIOUS.” Omega said,

               “That come with an explanation?” Sonic looks at Rouge with a raised eyebrow.

               “I think you tried to remember something but what you remembered wasn’t something happy. You passed out right after and we didn’t want to lose Robotnik’s trail, so Omega carried you.” Rouge said, “Just in case I don’t want to say too much, and you have another episode.”

               “That makes sense, too bad I can’t remember any of it.” Sonic said with a heavy sigh.

               “VITALS AND CHAOS ENERGY HAVE STABILIZED. RECOMMENDATION FIND ROBOTNIK AND FORCE HIM TO FIX MEMORIES. WITH FIRE.” Omega said,

               “We threaten him with fire or fix my memories using fire?” Sonic asked leaning against the armored robot. Rouge quickly notices this change in demeanor. So Omega doesn’t trigger any fears of being touched, perhaps because they are not human?

               “IF WE COULD FIX YOUR MEMORIES WITH FIRE, WE WOULD HAVE DONE SO ALREADY.” Omega said as Sonic chuckles,

               “You have a point. So where are we going?” Sonic asked,

               “Robotnik has a base here in the mountains, we believe he fled here after our altercation last night.” Rouge said,

               “THERE WILL BE MANY ROBOTNIK ROBOTS TO DESTROY.” Omega said as they hear happy beeps coming from them.

               “Then let’s go give the Doc a visit.” Sonic said as they all run ahead.

               The Chaotix head deeper into the mountains. “Good you are almost to Robotnik’s base.” The voice said, Vector resists the urge to roll his eyes. “This is your mission. Robotnik is planning to transport a very volatile power source. You must stop him from moving it.”

               “What do we do with the power source?” Espio asked,

               “Once you find it, I can give you the steps to disabling it.” The voice said,

               “Wait… is this a bomb?” Vector said,

               “It could be if he attempts to move it.” The voice said,

               “Shouldn’t we find someone better at this then us?” Charmy said, “Like Shadow?”

               “Absolutely not!” The voice protested. “I…. I mean… Shadow’s a pretty busy hero… And we’re pressed for time.”

               “Whatever you say boss…” Vector said as they head further into the cliffs.

               Shadow dreamt that night, memories of being back on the ARC. The night before the accident Maria and Shadow stayed up late because Shadow was too excited to meet whom he now knew was meant to be Sonic the following day.

               “Does he know we’re meeting tomorrow?” Shadow asked as Maria shakes her head,

               “No we’ve been keeping it a surprise because he’s a little excitable and we don’t need you both staying up all night.” Maria joked as Shadow looks away embarrassed.

               “D…Do you think we’ll get along?” Shadow asked,

               “I think so, but we will find out tomorrow. For now you need to rest.” Maria smiles as they leave the observatory.

               “Oi! Shadow!” He wakes to Knuckles yelling in his ear. “We need to get moving. We only have till nightfall.” He holds his gloved hand to him, and Shadow takes it with a groan.

               “Are you okay? You don’t usually sleep in.” Miles asked,

               “I… had a dream about Maria.” Shadow said,

               “Was there something odd about it?” Miles asked,

               “I haven’t dreamt about her since… the ARC.” Shadow said,

               “Oh…” Knuckles said, “Did something trigger it?”

               “Some of the lights in the casino reminded me of the ARC. That’s all.” Shadow said,

               “We can psychoanalyze on the run. We can’t let Robotnik to get away.” Miles said as they all nod in agreement.

               “We’ll have to be very cautious; the cliffs are dangerous.” Shadow said as he takes the lead and they quickly enter the mountains.

               “Omega, aim high.” Sonic said spin dashing against the ground forward tripping a group in front of them and causing them to be tossed in the air. Omega does as Sonic said and barrages the bots with shots that cause them to explode on impact.

               “I ENJOY THIS GAME.” Omega said,

               “You two are getting along so well you’re going to make me jealous.” Rouge jokes letting out a sarcastic huff as Sonic walks over next to her and playfully elbows her arm.

               “Aw, don’t be upset. Omega and my relationship isn’t going to change anything.” He winks but Rouge was too shocked to refute his remark. She was focused on him getting very close to her without showing any signs of discomfort. Was he feeling more relaxed around her? Or is it a side effect from what happened the night prior?

               “I WISH TO TOSS THE NEXT GROUPS OF ROBOTS INTO THE AIR.” Omega said as Sonic lets out a chuckle walking back over to them.

               “Sure bud, I’ll let you…” Sonic stops and starts looking around. “Do you… feel that?”

               “Feel what blue?” Rouge asked,

               “I… don’t know… If feels like… buzzing? Kinda like that feeling when going around the power plant.” Sonic explained looking around, It felt like something was tugging him in a direction. Calling to him.

               Rouge quickly follows behind Sonic keeping an eye as he led the three in the direction that the feeling was coming from.

               “SCANNERS ARE DETECTING CHAOS ENERGY.” Omega said as Rouge’s eyes widen,

               “As in a Chaos Emerald?” She asked as Sonic glances back noticing a glimmer in her eye he hadn’t seen before.

               “What’s that?” Sonic asked,

               “RAW CHAOS ENERGY IN MINERAL FORM.” Omega said,

               “You make it sound so boring!” Rouge said rolling her eyes, “Lead the way Hun.” Sonic sees a hunger in Rouge’s eyes. For a moment it makes him feel nervous.  

               “Sure…” Sonic said continuing to lead as they get to a cliff edge,

               “SCANS INDICATE ENERGY IS RIGHT BELOW US.” Omega said,

               “I don’t see anything.” Sonic said,

               “I think I see a ledge.” Rouge points out to him. She slowly holds his hand out to him, “Want to take a look?”

               Sonic looks over at Rouge then down at her hand. She watches him contemplate before he looks back up to her with a smile. “Sure, could be fun.” He takes her hand, and she smiles back at him. This was the confident hedgehog she got along with so fondly.

               “I WILL KEEP WATCH.” Omega said knowing it would be too difficult for them to go down there. They both give Omega a nod before Rouge flies off the ground slowly lifting him with her.

               “Not afraid of heights are you Hun?” Rouge teased as Sonic chuckles. They continue to slowly lower closer to the ledge that Sonic could now see is a cave.  

               “Not afraid of heights but definitely afraid of getting dropped.” Sonic said as she lands him into the small cavern. He could feel the energy coming from deeper within, a faint green glow gently illuminating the cave.

               Rouge follows him in, his focus on the glowing light that became brighter on their approach, almost as if resonating with him. Continuing in they finally come into eye contact with the gem. “Whoa…” Sonic said approaching it, the energy felt warm and familiar.

               “It is a Chaos Emerald!” Rouge said excitedly. Sonic reaches out for the gem before he stops just when he was about to touch it. This all felt familiar… he’s seen this gem before. “Blue?”

               “Uh… I think you should grab it.” Sonic said stepping back. “I’m getting that feeling like I’m trying to remember something, and I don’t think that happening out here would be a good idea.” She nods and snatches up the emerald before he could blink. “Didn’t think twice about that huh?” He chuckles,

               “You forget I’m also a treasure hunter. And the Chaos Emeralds are on another level.” She smirks back as they turn around. She stops for a moment. “Blue…”

               “Yeah?”

               “Do you want to remember your past?” She asked, turning towards him to look him in the eye.

               “Yes and no…” He lets out a sigh, “I want to know who I was… who I am. But at the same time there’s a pit in my gut telling me I’m not going to like what I find.”

               “Everyone has things they wish to forget. But sometimes it’s those things that define us, helped us turn into who we are.” She gently smiles placing a hand on his shoulder.

               “You’re probably right. I’m not going to fight it if they come back on their own. I just don’t want a repeat of what happened last night.” He said. She nods in agreement before they make it to the exit of the cave. “One last thing…”

               “Hm?” She looks at him confused as he looks away almost embarrassed.

               “Were we… I mean were you and I ever…” He continued to avoid eye contact and she figures out what he was asking. She wanted so badly to tease him but that wouldn’t be fair.

               “No dear, I don’t think I’m your type.” She winks as his face turns red.

               “W…wait, I have a type?” He asked as she laughs,

               “That you’re going to have to figure out on your own Blue. I’m not going to give anything away. That would spoil all the fun.” She said holding her hand out as he takes it. “Now, let’s go find Robotnik.”

               Big stops looking excited and surprised, “I smell Froggy!” He said with a light of hope in his eyes.

               “Chao!”

               “Cheese says he feels Chocola nearby!” Cream said with a little hop sharing in Bigs excitement.

               “This is great! Let’s follow the trail and find out friends!” Amy said letting Big and Cheese lead the way as they continue after them.

               “But… why would they be in a place like this?” Cream asked,

               “I don’t know Cream, but we’ll find them and give My Shadow this Chaos Emerald.” Amy said as Cream nods in agreement with her.

               “Froggy! Where are you!” Big calls out,

               “Big we need to be careful! There’s a Eggman base nearby.” Amy said her and Cream try to catch up to Big and Cheese who were rushing ahead.

               Shadow, Knuckles and Miles look confused as they are heading through the cliffs. In some areas they passed they saw destroyed robots. “This is strange, is someone else looking for Robotnik?” Miles asked,

               “I’m not sure.” Shadow said looking over the pieces of scrap metal. “Some of this damage looks like they were shot by another weapon. And others by something incredibly sharp.”

               “I was going to say maybe it was Amy, but this isn’t the kind of damage she usually causes.” Knuckles said,  

               “Agreed, someone else may be going after the Doctor. We should be cautious; we don’t know if they are friend or foe.” Shadow said,

               “What do we do if they get to Robotnik first?” Miles asked,

               “Then we kindly tell them to get out of our way,” Shadow said moving on ahead as Knuckles and Miles run after him.

               Omega takes out another group of bots near an airship landing strip. They had finally arrived at Robotnik’s base, but they have not found him yet. Rogue lets out a heavy sigh, she was starting to feel burnt out from all these fights. “Hey Rouge, you doing okay?” Sonic asked noticing her struggling to catch her breath.

               “SENSORS INDICATE YOUR MEAT FORM IS REACHING IT’S LIMITATIONS.” Omega said,

               “Well I’m not a killing machine or a Chaos Powered Hedgehog.” She said with a heavy sigh. “So yeah I’m a little past my limit.”

               “It doesn’t look like Egghead is here, Maybe we should find a place to rest.” Sonic said but he feels something behind him up in the air that causes his ear to twitch,

               “WARNING! ROBOTNIK CRAFT APPROACHING!” Omega said getting ready to take aim.

               “Can you hold out a bit longer Rouge?” Sonic asked looking at her concerned, she nods. “Good, cuz I think another one of those Chaos Emeralds in in there.”

               “CHAOS ENERGY SIGNATURE COMING FROM CRAFT CONFIRMED.”

               “You are a stubborn lot!” Robotnik said from the top of the craft. “All units to your positions! I want that Hedgehog alive!” He points as more robots jump out of the craft and charge towards them.

               “Stay back, I have an idea,” Sonic said charging forward, “Omega, wait for my signal!”

               “ACKNOWLEDGED!” Omega said as Sonic begins to run in a circle in front of the robots path running faster and faster until his momentum creates a cyclone in the center of his circle. It holds its form moving towards the bots as Sonic moves out of the way, The bots start to get pulled into the cyclone and lifted into the air.

               “Now!” Sonic said,

               “FIRING FULL ARTILLERY.” Omega unleashes a full load of attacks on the robots.

               “Alright!” Sonic cheers but they quickly notice the cyclone doesn’t stop as it continues to move towards Robotnik’s ship flinging around robot parts. They begin to crash into the air craft causing loud explosions.

               “What? NO!” Robotnik yelled as the craft began to come crashing down causing another large explosion.

               “WAS THAT MEANT TO HAPPEN?” Omega asked as they all stared at the now destroyed craft.

               “Uh…Y…Yeah, totally meant for that to happen…” Sonic chuckles,

               “We should probably make sure the Doctor isn’t dead.” Rouge said as she starts to fly over towards the wreckage as Omega and Sonic follow after her,

               “SCANS INDICATE NO LIFE SIGNS.” Omega said, as they approach to where the cockpit was seeing Robotnik’s motionless body lying on the ground.

               “I… I didn’t mean…” Sonic ears pin back realizing the one person who might have been able to return his memories was now gone.

               “It’s not your fault Hun,” Rouge said approaching the body as the stomach opens and a head identical to Robotnik’s pops out on a spring like a jack in the box. Rouge screams at the sudden surprise literally jumping in the air.

               “That scared me!” Rouge said placing her hand on her chest trying to calm down.

               “Wait… Robotnik is a robot?” Sonic asked confused approaching the body.

               “NEGATIVE. THIS IS A FAKE.” Omega said clenching his fist.

               “Then where is he?” Rouge asked,

               “SCANNING RECORDS FOR POSSIBLE LOCATIONS.” Omega said as Sonic walks around towards where he could feel the radiating Chaos Energy coming from.

               “Looking for the Emerald?” Rouge said following after him.

               “Yeah but it’s weird, it feels… different.” He said stepping closer to one of the walls of the craft.

               “Different how?” Rouge asked as she watched him cut through some of the metal. He reaches up and bends the metal piece out of the way to get inside,

               “Well, from what I feel from the Chaos Emerald is feels almost random like the energy moves. This, this feels stagnant… almost dead.” He explained as they both look inside. They see a large glass chamber that glowed brightly with blue energy. Rouge recognized this chamber from one of the schematics she saw upon the Space Colony ARC when trying to find more information on Sonic. This was a Chaos Drive.

               Rouge looks over at Sonic who looks almost pale. She knew he recognized it. “Hun, talk to me.” Rouge said as he just stares at it.

               “I… I recognize this, I’ve seen it before.” He said reaching for it. “What is it?” Sonic snaps his gaze to her looking for answers, “Why does it feel like a part of me?” Rouge gulps feeling panicked not sure if she should explain what that is.

               Omega steps closer, they look over Sonic and the Drive. Loud beeps and processing sounds. Sonic turns to them hoping they might know more. “ANALYSIS COMPLETE. RECORDS IDENTIFY OBJECT AS CHAOS DRIVE PROTOTYPE 2.”

               “Chaos Drive? What does that mean?” Sonic asked looking almost frustrated.

               “RECORDS STATE THE CHAOS DRIVE IS AN ENERGY CORE THAT WAS CREATED BY PROFESSOR GERALD ROBOTNIK TO CONTAIN THE EXCESS ENERGY CREATED BY PROJECT S. MORE POWERFUL THAN ANY ENERGY SOURCE AND SELF SUSTAINING. THIS IS ROBOTNIKS ATTEMPT TO RECREATE ONE.” Omega explained,

               “Excess energy? Now I’m even more confused.” Sonic rubbed his temples; his head was starting to pound.

               “Sonic,” Rouge gently places her hand on his shoulder turning him towards her, “You constantly generate Chaos energy, to the point where your body can’t contain it.” Rouge said,

               “THE DRIVE WAS CREATED TO ABSORB THE ACCESS AMOUNT OF ENERGY SAFELY TO ASSURE THE ARC WOULD NOT BE DAMAGED.”

               “Okay, I don’t get all the science mumbo jumbo.” Sonic said impatiently tapping his foot.

               “It’s a battery Blue.” Rouge said as Sonic’s quills raise. The simplicity of was understandable but the implications behind them meant that… All he was… All he is… was a battery.

               “I’m a battery?” The words slipped out of his breath before he could think. Rogue could see the light leave his eyes, that empty stare losing all hope.

               “Sonic the Hedgehog!” Rouge said sternly causing him to jolt back to reality. “You listen to me! That…” She points at the Chaos Drive. “That is a battery, and you are a living, breathing person. That energy was stolen from you. You are more than that thing you hear me?” Sonic just stares at her and nods.

               “Sorry I…” Sonic said as Rouge pats his head,

               “I know, Now we have a living Doctor to find.” Rouge said.

               “MY RESEARCH DISCOVERED THAT ROBOTNIK HAS BUILT AN ARMADA AND IS ATTEMPTING TO TAKE OVER THE WORLD.” Omega explained,

               “Which way?” Rouge asked,

               “PAST THE JUNGLE.” Omega points.

               “Well we shouldn’t dawdle then,” She said starting to walk away. Sonic glances back at the Chaos Drive. He reaches in and pulls it out.

               “WARNING! CHAOS DRIVE IS VERY VOLATILE.” Omega warned.

               “What are you doing?” Rouge asked taking a cautionary step back.

               “You said this was stolen from me right? Then I’m taking it back. I won’t let Egghead use my energy.” He said as Omega and Rouge see sparks come from the Chaos Drive and move towards Sonic’s arms the energy being reabsorbed into him.

               “Blue stop, absorbing that much energy is dangerous, it could hurt you.” Rouge said but the energy coming off of him and the Drive began to flicker brighter and more erratic as Omega pushes Rogue back behind them.

               “ENERGY LEVELS REACHING CRITICAL.” Omega said. The light from the Drive blinks a few times before disappearing completely. But flashes of energy continue to jump out from Sonic. He winces dropping the now dead Chaos Drive hunched over in pain.

               “Sonic! You need to run! It’s the only way to disperse the energy.” Rouge said, she points towards the direction Omega pointed out earlier. “Run to the forest and don’t stop running until the pain stops.” She said as Sonic gives her a nod before dashing off in a blue blur.

               They both wait for a moment as Rouge lets out a sigh. “We should go…” She said as Omega holds out his hand to her.   

               “I WILL CARRY YOUR WEAK FORM SO YOU MAY REST.” Omega said,

               “We need to work on your tact Hun.” Rouge said accepting the aid since she was too tired to argue. She sits down in his palm and he lifts her up before heading forward. “Omega…” Rouge calls out but only hears acknowledging beeps. “You said that was Prototype 2… do you know how many Robotnik made from his energy?”

               “ROBOTNIK ONLY CREATED ONE CHAOS DRIVE USING SONIC’S ENERGY.” Omega said,

               "But then why was it called Prototype 2?” Rouge asked looking up at the robot confused.

               “THE FIRST CHAOS DRIVE PROTOTYPE WAS CREATED BEFORE ROBOTNIK FOUND SONIC. HE USED A CHAOS EMERALD TO CREATE IT USING ARTIFICAL MEANS. BUT IT WAS NOT AS POWERFUL.” Omega explained,

               “I don’t think Sonic will care if the Drive is his energy or the Emeralds. He may want to destroy it out of spite.” Rouge said,

               “THAT WOULD BE RATHER DIFFICULT.” Omega said,

               “Why is that?”

               “THE CHAOS DRIVE PROTOTYPE ONE IS MY POWER CORE.” Omega said as Rouges eyes widen. Now she understood why Omega was so different than all the other robots Robotnik made. The energy coursing through him was Chaos energy. It’s power alone could have given Omega their personality. Given them a soul.

               “Omega… you’re just chalk full of surprises.” Rouge smirks at him,

               “I DO NOT HAVE ANY CHALK.” Omega said causing Rouge to laugh.

               “Let’s go find our Chaotically unstable Hedgehog.” Rouge said as Omega responds with confirming beeps before the rockets on his back open up and activate propelling them at a faster pace to try and catch up to Sonic.      

Chapter Text

               Amy, Cream and Big approach the wreckage of the carrier craft beside Robotnik’s base. Everything was destroyed as they look around shocked at all of the damage. “Did Mr. Shadow do all of this?” Cream asked looking surprised.

               “I’m not sure Cream.” Amy said,

               “I’m going to find Froggy.” Big said walking closer as the two girls follow after him. They look around trying to find clues about their missing friends.

               “Chao!” Cheese gets Creams attention pointing out the fake Robotnik laying on the ground. The fake head bobbing from side to side. It’s left eye popped out and uncomfortably unnatural grin.

               “Ms. Amy…” Cream called out, “Cheese found something.” She said as Amy and Big rush over to her seeing the strange sight.

               “This Eggman was a fake?” Amy said stomping her foot down annoyed.

               “Froggy! Where are you! Let’s go home.” Big called out before his large ears lower sadly.

               Cheese flies close to Cream looking upset letting out a whimper. “Cheese, are you okay?” She asked her friend looking worried.

               “Chocola Chao…”

               “I know…” Cream pats his head.

               “This has to be a kidnapping.” Amy said.

               “Huh? But… Why?” Cream asked,

               “I don’t know. But after following our lead here and running into a fake.” Amy gestures to the fake Eggman, “I’m positive Doctor Eggman is playing a big part in this. I don’t know why he needs Froggy or Chocola, but we need to find him quickly. Let’s go!”

               “Yeah!” Cream cheers,

               “Chao!”

               “Okay.” Big said as they charge towards the jungle.

               Omega scans for Chaos Energy trying to hunt down Sonic. There wasn’t a large burst of energy, so they knew the energy Sonic was carrying didn’t explode. But since the energy signature strength subsided it was difficult to pinpoint his location.

               They look down at the bat asleep in their palm who succumbed to the living need to recharge energy. They knew it was called sleep or rest and was necessary for her survival. Omega tried to figure out how to summon the fast Hedgehog. But before he could the bright blur appeared in front of them, threatening to blind the infrared scanners they were using to find him.

               “There you are. I was looking everywhere for you.” Sonic said looking relieved to see them. “She okay?” He sees Rouge in his hand.

               “SHE FELL ASLEEP WHILE WE SEARCHED FOR YOU.” Omega said, “WE SHOULD FIND A PLACE TO STOP FOR THE NIGHT.” Sonic nods as they walk forward looking for a place to rest.  

               “How did she know that I should do that?” Sonic asked,

               “UNKNOWN. ROUGE HAS STATED THAT SHE KNEW YOU. PERHAPS YOU TOLD HER IN THE PAST.” Omega said,  

               “Got a point there. At least Eggman can’t use my energy to hurt people.” Sonic said.

               “WHY DO YOU CARE?” Omega asked,

               “Huh?” Sonic asked looking at the mech confused,

               “WHY DO YOU CARE IF ROBOTNIK HURTS PEOPLE?” They asked, Sonic places his hands behind his head tilting it to the side to think.

               “I’m not sure… I kinda have this feeling in my gut. That I’m supposed to help people.” Sonic said looking distant staring up at the stars. “If he used my energy to hurt people… It’d be like an extension of myself was hurting people.”

               “YOU SAID IT YOURSELF. THAT THE DRIVE FELT ALMOST DEAD. MEANING IT CANNOT BE AN EXTENSION OF YOU IF IT IS DEAD.” Omega said,

               “This your attempt at telling me I did something stupid and shouldn’t do that again?” Sonic asked looking up at the bot.

               “AFFIRMATIVE.” Omega said as Sonic chuckles,

               “Yeah that hurt a lot. Definitely not risking that.” He said pointing out a small cavern. “Looks like we can crash there.” He hears Omega’s eyes whir scanning the cavern.

               “SCANS SHOW NO HEAT SIGNATURES WITHIN THE CAVE.” Omega said.

               “Sweet, I could use a nap after that run.” Sonic said with a yawn as they head inside.  

               Espio walks closer towards the wreckage first. He wanted to be sure it was safe before Vector or Charmy approached. If there truly was a bomb here they needed to be very careful. And his ninja skills trained him how to be cautious and calm it stressful situations.

               “What are we looking for here?” Vector asked watching Espio nervously from a distance as Charmy was asleep in his free arm. He was surprised the kid had stayed awake for this long.

               “It’s a glass chamber that is twelve inches long and 2 inches in diameter.” The voice said, “The chamber will be giving off a vibrant blue glow.”

               “I’m not seeing any glow.” Espio said. With how dark it was he definitely would have seen something glowing by now.

               “Maybe it blew up. This place is in pieces.” Vector said,

               “If it had blown up… the entire top of the mountain would have been vaporized.” The voice said as Vector and Espio give each other a terrified look.

               “You realize you’re paying us extra for this risky job right?” Vector said,

               “Yes, yes of course! Now hurry up and find it!”

               Espio finds something matching the voice over the radios’ description but there was no blue glow. “I found something. Does the chamber have two metal prongs sticking out and a handle on the other?”

               “Yes! You found it! Now be very careful with it.” The voice said,

               “There’s one problem.” Espio said walking closer to Vector showing him the empty container. “I assume since it’s not glowing the energy source is dead.”

               “Dead? No that’s impossible! The Drive is self-sustaining it can’t be dead!”

               “Regardless, there is no glow.” Espio said,

               “Perhaps Sonic…”

               “What was that?” Vector said hearing the voice mumbling.

               “N…Nothing! Uh… Just to the north of this wasteland is a jungle. I want you three to head over there next.” The voice said,

               “Yeah okay.” Vector said,

               “Perhaps we should find a place to rest.” Espio said,

               “Agreed, we’ve been going nonstop for a while now.” Vector said as they head towards the jungle.  

               Shadow, Miles and Knuckles finally get to the now shut down base. “Looks like you were right about other people going after Eggman.” Knuckles said kicking away one of the pieces of shrapnel.

               “I just hope they didn’t kill him…” Shadow said as Miles flies up to get a better look of the wreckage.

               “It’s too dark for me to see anything…” He said flying back down next to Shadow.

               “Everyone be cautious, for all we know the ones who caused this could still be nearby.” Shadow said as his companions nod and follow him closer to the grounded aircraft.

               After a few minutes of searching, going around some of the scraps Shadow sees an unmoving hand. He dashes over to it fearing the worst. “Doctor?” He called out reaching out grabbing the hand feeling it was cold as he looks at the body seeing the child like head bobbing from side to side.

               “Shadow?” Knuckles and Miles run over to see Shadow pull his hand away from the fake Robotnik looking partially relieved and annoyed.

               “It’s a fake…” He said,

               “Oh hohoho!” They are all startled to hear Robotnik’s voice come out of the head. “You fools! You all have been deceived.”

               “A recording?” Miles asked taking a closer look at the fake.

               “I have assembled my Egg Armada elsewhere. And now they are sweeping across the entire world. I hope you enjoy the view before you.” They all turn their heads to see a flying armada of massive ships heading towards the jungle.

               “Damn… It was all a trick so he could buy time… We need to hurry and stop their attacks.” Shadow said charging towards the jungle.

               “Shadow wait!” Knuckles said running after him.

               Miles was still looking over the fake Robotnik, it looked nothing like the Doctors usual work. “This isn’t one of Robotnik’s mechs…”   

               “Tails!” Knuckles beckons him to follow,

               “I’m coming! Wait for me!” He said running after the.

               After they were out of sight, the fake Robotnik’s form begins to turn a silvery color. Before melting into a liquid metal. The shape reforms and one similar in shape of Shadow, but the head spines were elongated and metal a red streak in the middle of each. It’s shoulders pointed up with a curve. As the form solidifies revealing the robotic form of Metal Shadow,

               “Ultimate lifeform biodata, copied.”  

               The following morning Sonic wakes hearing the loud yawn from Rouge as she began to wake up. She immediately looks in his direction relieved to see him, “Feeling better?” She asked,

               “Yeah, sorry for worrying you, I definitely won’t be doing that again,” Sonic said with a chuckle,

               “Be sure you do Blue; I spent a lot of time looking for you so try not to be too reckless.” She teased,

               “I make no promises, I’m reckless by nature.” He said as she laughs,

               “SUGGESTION: CONTINUE CAMARADERIE WHILE WE HUNT FOR ROBOTNIK.” Omega said as they stand back up.

               “Omega’s right, we should get going. Don’t know how much of a head start he had.” Sonic said as they all head deeper into the thick jungle.  

               “Are we done yet?” Charmy asked still half asleep while walking through the jungle. They had rested but they were not used to early mornings.

               “No! Now listed closely, I want you all to find the blue hedgehog.” Their employer said as Vector and Espio give each other a look.

               “I thought you wanted us to stay away from them.” Espio said,

               “That was before we discovered the Chaos Drive was empty. If the Chaos Drive is gone he will become Robotnik’s next target.” The voice said,

               “Why would Robotnik go after him?” Vector asked,

               “Just keep an eye out for him, if Robotnik gets his hands on him it’s game over.” The voice said as Vector mutes the radio again,

               “This is starting to get really fishy,” Vector said,

               “Should we actually warn the Blue Hedgehog?” Charmy asked,

               “No, if we do our employer might catch on that we’re onto him.” Espio said,

               “Wait… we’re onto him?” Charmy asked looking at them confused,

               “Don’t worry about that kid, you just keep an eye out for that blue Hedgehog.” Vector said,

               “I still can’t believe Robotnik took Froggy and Chocola,” Cream said, They entered further into the jungle.

               “Well, it’s only a theory. I don’t have any proof that Robotnik took them but with how he’s been everywhere we’ve been searching it makes sense. Plus we need to give Shadow this Chaos Emerald,” Amy said as they both nod in agreement,

               They see a massive Frog that was larger than Big hop away towards the swamps, “They might know where Froggy is!” Big said running after it.

               “Big wait!” Amy yelled as she and Cream chase after him

               Knuckles stops for a moment looking around, “Hey Shadow...” Knuckles gives him a knowing look. He could see it again; Shadow’s Chaos energy was pulling in a specific direction again similar to in the Casino.

               “I sense it too. There’s another Chaos Emerald nearby,” Shadow said,

               “Not that… Have you been feeling like you should be going in a specific direction, as if something is pulling at you?” Knuckles asked as Shadow looked surprised,

               “Are you seeing something?” Shadow asked as he nods,

               “What do you see?” Miles asked,

               “Your energy is reaching out like it’s trying to grab something,” Knuckles said,

               “That’s odd, perhaps it’s reaching for the other Emerald?” Shadow said,

               “Should we check it out?” Miles asked, “What if it’s one of Robotnik’s robots that has the Emerald?”

               “He has a point,” Knuckles said,

               “It’s not deterring from our path so it wouldn’t hurt having another Emerald in our possession.” Shadow said as they all nod in agreement and let Shadow lead towards the Chaos Emerald.   

               “It looks like we have to go through this swamp area.” Rouge said looking unhappy with the situation, “Be careful not to fall in.” She looks over at Sonic who was looking over the edge of a lily pad they were standing on looking into the mirky water.

               “Yeah, I don’t think I like it here…” Sonic said,

               “Do you know how to swim?” Rouge asked,

               “What’s swim?” Sonic asked as she gently pulls him away from the edge.

               “For my sanity, perhaps you should stay away from the edges. Don’t need you falling in.” She said as he nods,

               “ANALYSIS COMPLETE: I SUGGEST WE FIND HIGHER GROUND.” Omega said,

               “Good idea Hun, why don’t you check to see if there’s a path we can follow,” Rouge said as Sonic smiles,

               “Be back in a flash!” Sonic said running up to the top of one of the trees.

               “WARNING! THREE HEAT SIGNATURES APPROACHING.” Omega said as Rouge turns around seeing one person she was not expecting to see here in the swamp. Shadow, Knuckles and Miles were approaching them.

               “Rouge…” Shadow snarled. Seeing her standing next to one of Robotnik’s mech’s could only mean she was working alongside him again.

               “S…Shadow… What are you doing here?” Rouge said, a part of her praying Sonic stayed up at the top a little bit longer.

               “We should be asking you that Bat. Don’t tell me you’re pretending to be working for Robotnik again.” Knuckles said,

               “Nice to see you too handsome.” Rouge said giving him a wink as he turns away hiding a blush, “And no I am not working with him again but you all can turn back we can take it from here.”

               “What?” Miles said looking confused,

               “ROBOTNIK IS MY TARGET. IF YOU INTERFERE YOU SHALL BE DESTROYED.” Omega said, Shadow steps closer towards Rouge.

               “You know I can’t do that Rouge, especially since he’s trying to hurt people.” Shadow said holding his hand out to her. “Now give me the Chaos Emerald.”

               “Fine if that’ll make you go away.” She pulls out the Emerald and holds it out to him.

               “There’s no way you’re just giving up an Emerald.” Knuckles said crossing his arms,

               “I have to agree, what game are you playing at?” Shadow said about to grab the Emerald from Rouge before she changes her mind when a blue blur zips past them and the Emerald in her hands was gone.

               “What’s this about a game? Pretty sure I like the sound of that,” Sonic said tossing the Emerald in his hand.

               Shadow’s eyes widen, flashes of the past go through his head of their first meeting in Station Square. That same confident grin as he looked at him. He blinks a few times trying to come back to his senses, “Sonic?”

               He stops tossing the Emerald now getting a better look at the striped hedgehog, there was something about him… seemed familiar… “Do I… know you?” Sonic asked the expression of unrecognition alone felt like a stab in the heart. Rouge grabs Shadow’s arm.

               “He’s an acquaintance of mine. We just gonna have a little chat… Could you four give us a moment,” She said pulling Shadow away who still stared at Sonic completely stunned, Sonic looks up at Omega as they both give each other a shrug.

               “Need you to pull it together so I can explain.” Rouge said making sure they were a fair decent way away knowing how good Sonic’s hearing is.

               “Is he real? I didn’t just imagine that… Right?” Shadow said still looking in Sonic’s direction.

               “Focus Hun.” She tugs again as he turns towards her with a snarl,

               “Why didn’t you tell me?” Shadow said,

               “Because he doesn’t remember who he is…” Rouge said as the weight of those words slammed into him. Their fights, witty banter and saving the world together… all of it… gone. “Pretty sure it had to do with the fall.”

               “And you’re sure it’s him?” Shadow asked as Rouge understood what he meant. Nothing should have survived a fall from space yet... There he was, not a scratch on him. His first theory was a robot or possibly a clone.

               “You tell me. You said it yourself, the two of you are connected,” Rouge said at Shadow glances back over at Sonic who had begun teasing Knuckles as he was demanding the Emerald. He couldn’t deny it, he could feel the pull, the need for their Chaos energies to balance the others out.

               “You still should have told me,” Shadow crosses his arms,

               “Our working theory was that Robotnik was responsible for his memory loss but when we confronted him he didn’t even know his memories were gone. But said he could help get his memories back.” Rouge explained,

               “An obvious trap.” Shadow said as Rouge nods in agreement, “So you’re going after him to force him to help?”

               “He owes him that much… Honestly I’d kill him myself if I didn’t tell Omega he could do the honors.” Rouge said,

               “I don’t condone killing,” Shadow said,

               “You wouldn’t say that if you saw what he did Shadow, He had him imprisoned in stasis collecting dust in a forgotten vault. He experimented on him…” She said, a venom to her words almost as an accusation.

               When she first started looking for Sonic, she asked him for help. But Shadow didn’t want to have hope that Sonic was alive, losing him once was already too much to bear but holding onto false hope would eventually break him. She would never say it out loud, but a part of her blames him for it taking so long to find Sonic.

               “I’m here now, how can I help.” Shadow asked,

               “You can leave,” Rouge said as Shadow looks surprised,

               “What?”

               “We’ve already had one incident when he almost remembered something, and it was too much. I think a part of him is repressing his memories. You should know better than anyone what it’s like to be a lab rat.” Shadow’s ears pin back. All he wanted, more than anything was to connect with Sonic again… But not at the cost of hurting him.

               “Fine…” Shadow lets out an accepting sigh, “But only on one condition.” She waits to hear what this condition was before giving her answer, “If he begins to remember you tell me right away. I’m the best suited to help him through it. Especially if his Chaos Energy gets out of control.” She nods accepting his conditions.

               “You still have that communicator I gave you?” Rouge asked as Shadow nods.

               They both walk over seeing Sonic sitting on top of Omega’s shoulder chuckling at Knuckles who looked like steam was coming out of his ears. “She was giving us the Emerald!” Knuckles said,

               “And I say finders keepers, That’s the saying right?” Sonic asked Omega,

               “AFFIRMATIVE.” Omega said,

               “Are you two ganging up on him?” Rouge teased,

               “I was explaining to him since technically I found the Emerald I decide if we give it away or not.” Sonic said.

               “He has a point Red,” Rouge said as Knuckles lets out a huff.

               “Do you have a way to hide its presence?” Shadow asked as Sonic looks confused, Shadow pulls out the Chaos Emerald from his quills as Sonic suddenly senses the Emerald looking shocked,

               “Whoa! Can I do that?” Sonic asked shoving the Emerald into his quills but he could still sense it.

               “Perhaps I can teach you after I deal with Robotnik.” Shadow said,

               “YOU MEAN WHEN WE DEAL WITH ROBOTNIK.” Omega interjected,

               “Yeah, what makes you think you’ll get to him first.” Sonic said crossing his arms, Shadow gives him a grin as he puts his Emerald away.

               “That a challenge Hedgehog?” Shadow said as Sonic jumps down getting right in his face,

               “You bet it is Stripes, winner gets dibs.” Sonic said as Shadow takes a step back noticing the pull of their Chaos energies strengthening. It felt almost maddening to resist. He wondered if Sonic felt that same pull he did.  

               “Then you better catch up.” Shadow said grabbing Knuckles and Miles’ arms and warping away.

               “Hey! No fair!” Sonic said with a huff. “How did he do that?”

               “C’mon Hun, we can’t let them beat us right?” Rouge said.

               “No way I’m letting that faker beat us.” Sonic said as Rouge has to stop herself from making a comment. He called Shadow a faker, more of his old personality continues to bleed through. But how long before his memories return? “Here, I don’t like how it feels holding it, reminds me of absorbing the Chaos Drive.” Sonic hands her the Chaos Emerald and they all start moving.  

               Amy is surprised to see the Chaotix approach them, “What are you three doing here?” Vector asked as they approached,

               “That’s none of your business Vector.” Amy said crossing her arms.

               “Have you seen a Blue Hedgehog anywhere?” Espio asked,

               “Blue Hedgehog? No, don’t think I have.” Amy said,

               “We saw Mr. Shadow but he’s not blue.” Cream said,

               “Why are you looking for him?” Amy asked,

               “That’s none of your business Amy.” Vector said as she lets out a huff.

               “Fine then we’ll be on our way, c’mon guys.” Amy said storming off as Cream and Big follow after them.

               “She was probably looking for Shadow.” Charmy quietly chuckles.

               “We should keep moving if we want to find him.” Espio said,

               “Those kids are going to get themselves hurt…” Vector said shaking his head,

               “Hey! I’m a kid too!” Charmy said,

               “Yeah but you’re with us that’s different.” Vector said,

               “How is it different?” Charmy asked,

               “Because we’re adults Charmy… now stop asking questions we’re supposed to be quiet!” Vector said as they all try to find Team Dark’s trail out of the Jungle towards an eerily looking manor.             

Chapter Text

               Shadow walks silently as Miles and Knuckles walk behind him wondering if he was going to tell them what he a Rouge talked about. “T… This place sure is creepy…” Miles said breaking the silence, “I think there might be Ghosts around here.”

               “Maybe that was the Ghost of Sonic we saw back there.” Knuckles teased as Miles jolts before rushing up to walk next to Shadow,

               “Don’t scare me like that Knuckles!” Miles said 

               Shadow pats his head reassuring him. “Don’t worry Prower, that was Sonic. No need to fear ghosts.” Shadow said glaring back at Knuckles.

               “Are you okay?” Miles asked as Shadow pauses.

               “I… I don’t know. I’m relieved that he’s alive but…” Shadow looks at the stary sky, “Knowing he remembers nothing… It make my chest feel tight.”  

               “But there’s a chance he’ll get them back right?” Knuckles asked,

               “Rouge said when he tried to remember something it hurt him… Living on the ARC was not glamorous… The only thing I truly enjoyed was my time with Maria or the Professor…” Shadow said as Miles steps closer and grasping his hand.

               “But you’ll be there for him when he needs you. Like you were for me.” Miles said with a smiles and Shadow gives him a gentle smile back. He knew his little brother was right, perhaps Sonic would never fully get his memories back. But that doesn’t mean they couldn’t have a new start. Their challenge to get to Robotnik was proof of that.

               They continue towards the entrance as a transparent pumpkin headed creature appears. “Whoa!” Knuckles jumps as Shadow quickly throws a Chaos Spear at it and it disappears.

               Shadow shoots a grin at Knuckles, “I thought you got over your fear of ghosts.” He teased as Knuckles look embarrassed,

               “It took me off guard! That’s all!” Knuckles protested,

               “Sure it did.” Shadow said continuing to walk forward, “At least we know Chaos Spears get rid of them.” They approach the door as it opens on its own. Only a strange glowing orb in the back of the room.

               “What do you think that is?” Miles steps closer,

               “Just don’t touch it,” Shadow said as he nods.

               As all three of them cautiously approach the orb glows blindingly bright as they feel the floor beneath them disappear. They fall and land on a narrow platform, “What the… What in the world just happened?” Knuckles asked,

               “It looks like the manor turned upside down.” Miles said noticing the clouds were now beneath them.

               “We’re also in an entirely different part of the manor, that thing must be some sort of teleportation device that activates upon approach.” Shadow said,

               “Think this place was made to be disorientating.” Knuckles said,

               “Agreed, let’s move cautiously.” Shadow said as they enter further into the strange manor.

               “I think we got lost…” Big said as the three of them walk towards the creepy looking manor.

               “T…This place looks really scary…” Cream said slightly hiding behind Big as Cheese follows after her. Amy turns back towards them placing her hands on her hips.

               “What’s with the whining? We’re doing this for Chocola and Froggy right?” Amy asked as they both look at each other and nod,

               “Chao!”

               “So let’s show everyone we have guts!” Amy said,

               “If everyone is doing their best I have to do my best too…” Big said filling himself with resolve. They continue to walk towards the manor and see a transparent pumpkin headed figure appear as they all scream not expecting to be spooked so suddenly.

               Amy summons her hammer throwing it at the specter as it disappears on impact. “I don’t like it here Miss Amy…” Cream said,

               “W…we gotta push through… I know Shadow went through here.” Amy said as they continue towards an open door with a strange glowing orb. It glows brightly blinding them as they fall for a moment landing on a platform in a completely different place.

               “Where are we?” Cream asked,

               “The Manor turned upside down!” Big said panicked,

               “I think that thing teleported us to a completely different part of the manor.” Amy said, “Everyone stay close, we just got to keep moving forward.” They hesitate before nodding going further in.

               “Where in the world are we now?” Rouge asked looking confused. Why was there a strange manor at the end of a jungle?

               “DO NOT WORRY.” Omega said noticing Rouge looked uncomfortable with their new surroundings. “I CAN CONFIRM THAT PAST THIS MANOR IS ONE OF ROBOTNIK’S BASES.” Rouge notices Sonic being awfully quiet.

               “You seem to be deep in thought there. Have you remembered something?” Rouge asked worried their encounter with Shadow was the cause for his silence.

               “Huh? Oh… sorry, guess I spaced,” Sonic chuckles, “We should probably keep moving,” Sonic said as they continue further but internally Sonic was thinking about the Striped Hedgehog they just met. Why did he seem so familiar? Why did it feel like it had something to do with Robotnik? But one question was ringing through his head more than the others.

               Who am I to him?

               They continue towards the entrance that had already been opened, probably from the other groups head start. The only thing in the center of the room was a strange orb. As they approach, a pumpkin headed specter blocks their path.

               “ILLOGICAL TARGETS!” Omega said opening fire on it as it disappears.

               “I officially hate it here…” Rouge said with an uncomfortable shiver.

               “Omega do you know what this is?” Sonic asked pointing at the orb.

               “SCANNING.” They hear the beeps as Omega processes the information. “THIS IS A TELEPORTATION DEVICE CREATED TO MOVE AROUND THE MANOR.”

               “So should we touch it?” Sonic reached for it,

               “Wait Blue!” Rouge said but the light flashes and they are teleported to a random location. “Where are we?”

               “WE HAVE BEEN GROUNDED TO THE MANORS CEILING.” Omega explained,

               “I’m officially dizzy…” Sonic said,

               “Let’s find a way out of here quickly.” Rouge said,

               “Don’t have to tell me twice.” Sonic said as they go the only way forward.

               “What was Amy’s problem huh? There was no reason for her to be so rude.” Vector pouted,   

               “Maybe Vector needs to be more careful about what he says next time.” Charmy teased,

               “I didn’t say anything bad! I Just asked them a question!” Vector argued.

               “Stop your bickering! You need to find that Blue Hedgehog! He was seen entering this strange manor. Keep your wits about you, there’s a strange magic around here.” Their client said.

               They approach the door and see that it is closed, “Hmm, we’ll have to find another way in.” Vector said as they look around,

               “I see a window up there.” Espio points out.

               “Let’s just get this over with.” Vector said as they all head in through the window.

               Omega was able to find another one of the strange orbs and they are teleported to a different area of the Manor, “Looks like we’re back to right side up.” Sonic said,

               “This place is exhausting…” Rouge said as Sonic chuckles, “How you feeling Blue?” She asked checking him over seeing his ears were slightly drooped looking stressed,

               “A bit stir crazy; I’d really like to trash some robots right about now.” Sonic said,

               “I CONCUR.” Omega said,

               Sonic sees one of Robotnik’s bots walking around aimlessly, “Oh dibs!” Sonic called out dashing across the bridge in a dash quickly destroying it before it had even realized he approached.

               “I LAY CLAIM ON THE NEXT TARGET!” Omega said letting out annoyed beeps and shaking their fist,

               “Ha, ha yeah I’ll make sure you get the next one.” Sonic said.

               Sonic was unaware that a hidden pathway opened behind him and out comes a UFO shaped robot with two elongated arms similar in shape to a jellyfish floated silently towards him.

               “Sonic behind you!” Rouge yells out as Sonic looks up to see this strange robot hovering above him.

               “What the…” Before Sonic could react, the robot activates it’s tractor beams as he’s lifted off the ground. The three tractor beams spinning him in place as he’s suspended midair. “Hey!”

               “Hang on Blue!” Rouge calls out as five Robots drop down blocking their path. “No… why now…”

               The Robot begins to float back carrying Sonic through the secret passage. “Rouge! Omega!”

               “No, no, NO!” Rouge panics seeing the secret door close behind the robot. Omega just barely manages to block an attack from hitting her.

               “ROUGE. WE MUST ELIMINATE THESE ENEMIES FIRST.” Omega said snapping her out of it.

               “You’re right, we can’t help him until we get rid of these pests.” Rouge said kicking one of the robots away from her. She prayed that Sonic was going to be alright,

               Sonic couldn’t see anything; he couldn’t differentiate what was up and down spinning in place unaware of where this robot was taking him. He felt panicked and frightened, he’s been trapped before… multiple times…

               Unrecognizable men wearing long white coats grab him and place him on a cold metal table. He tries to get up, but they use leather straps to hold him down. The strange men use tools and needles to take his blood, his fur, his skin, even pulling out one of his quills… He was so scared.  

               Sparks of energy began to come off of him as the memories of the past overwhelmed him. He was terrified knowing that he was separated from his friends and what might happen to him again.

               NO

               Sonics entire body glows a vibrant blue still sparking as the energy blasts forth from him with a resounding boom. The robot is instantly destroyed and Sonic falls to the ground. Did he do that? His entire body hurt, and he felt so drained… His arms buckle as he collapses not having any strength falling unconscious.  

               “This place is so frustrating…” Knuckles grumbles as they reach another orb but Shadow stops looking towards a wall.

               “Everything alright Shadow?” Miles asked as Shadow walks up to the wall.

               “I believe there is a secret entrance here.” Shadow said searching the wall.

               “Now that you mention it, I can see a seam right here.” Miles points out, “If you grab from here you might be able to open it.” Shadow gives Knuckles a nod and they both grab the seam and pull opening up the secret path.

               “Oh, that’s why you thought there was something hidden here.” Knuckles said now sensing the Chaos Emerald. “This place has me so confused it’s hard to tell.” He said as they all walk down the hallway.

               “I agree, I’ve been having trouble differentiating different Chaos signatures. It feels like there are multiple Emeralds moving around this place.” Shadow said as they see the Emerald and Shadow places it in his Quills masking it’s energy with the other. Having the two Emeralds and knowing Sonic had a third meant four were missing, He wondered if Robotnik had them.

               “What if there are multiple Emeralds here?” Miles asked,

               “We’ll keep an eye out just in case,” Shadow said as they walk back to the orb and warp further in.

               “Miss Amy I don’t want to be here anymore!” Cream whimpers as Amy takes her hand trying to calm her.

               “I’m sorry Cream we’ll get out of here as soon as we can.” Amy said trying to stay calm herself. The constant ghosts and getting turned around has been stressful. Big was so overwhelmed that he had gone completely quiet. She knew she had to get them out of here soon.

               They enter a larger room, but it looked like all the lanterns were blown out and there were scattered robot pieces everywhere. “Why does it look like an explosion went off.” Cream asked as Amy notices the unconscious blue Hedgehog lying on the floor.

               “Wait… Is that?” Amy lets go of Creams hand and rushes over to him recognizing his red shoes. “Is it really him?” She said kneeling down next to him and rolling him over to get a look at his face. “It is him!”

               “Who is that Miss Amy?” Cream asked as she and big walk over,

               “This is Sonic, he’s the one who helped Shadow save the world last year when Robotnik blew up the moon.” Amy said,

               “I remember that… it was scary.” Big said,

               “But what’s he doing here? I thought he died…” Amy said,

               “You don’t think he’s a ghost do you?” Cream asked,

               “No he’s breathing, but what happened to him?” Amy said looking concerned as he stirs a bit starting to open his eyes.

               He sees Amy kneeling down next to him. The first thing he noticed was her headband. He’s seen that headband before… No wasn’t the headband blue? “I know you…” Sonic said sounding pained,

               “Are you okay? What happened to you?” Amy asked, Sonic tries to move, but he felt so tired and heavy.  

               “Uh… I think I blew up?” Sonic said with a short chuckle before he winces in pain. “I got separated from my friends.”

               “Chao!” Cheese flies over and tugs at Bigs pouch pulling out the Chaos Emerald. They flies back to Amy and Sonic, “Chao, Chao!”

               “Cheese said to hold the Emerald.” Cream said as Sonic looks confused as Amy takes it and puts it in Sonic’s hand.

               “Cheese is right, the Chaos Emerald should help you feel better.” Amy said. And she was right, Sonic could already feel the energy from the Chaos Emerald restore him.

               “Thanks uh… Sorry I kinda lost my memories. I recognize you but I can’t recall your name.” Sonic said as Amy smiles,

               “I’m Amy Rose, these are my friends, Cream, Cheese, and Big.” She introduced the rest of them. “Who were you traveling with?”

               “Rouge and Omega.” Sonic said,  

               “Okay, we’re going to help you find them, you just rest.” Amy said as Sonic nods, “Big could you help carry him?”

               Big walks up and easily lifts him. “I got him.” He said as Sonic holds the Emerald tightly to his chest focusing on restoring his energy.

               “Okay let’s keep an eye out. With how confusing this place is they could be anywhere.” Amy said as they continue forward.

               The Chaotix were also having a difficult time finding their way around the manor. Out of the corner of his eye Espio sees a familiar sight but before saying anything he snatches the radio from Vector and turns it off. “What are you doing?” Vector asked,    

               “Look,” Espio points out Shadow, Miles and Knuckles walking down a balcony hallway one story up.

               “Oh! Charmy, can you get their attention.” Vector said,

               “Yep!” Charmy said flying up to them as they are all taken off guard,

               “Charmy? What are you doing here?” Knuckles said as he smiles,

               "We’re on a case!” Charmy said,

               “Where are Vector and Espio?” Knuckles asked. Charmy pointed down as they all make eye contact, as Vector waves.

               “Meet us down there.” Shadow said to Charmy as he places his hand on Knuckles and Miles’ shoulders and warps the three of them down next to Espio.

               “We thought we’d warn you.” Espio said,

               “Warn us about what?” Shadow asked,

               “Our employer has made a comment about a Blue Hedgehog being Robotnik’s next target.” Vector said as Shadow’s expression turns to worry.

               “I take it by that expression you know who he is.” Espio said,

               “Yes we do, we just saw him in the jungle,” Knuckles said, Shadow curses under his breath before pulling out the communicator Rouge gave him.

               “What’s that?” Miles asked,

               “Rouge gave it to me back when she first started looking for Sonic,” Shadow said noticing that the communicator wasn’t working properly and just static is heard. “Damnit!”

               “Calm down, can you detect the Chaos Emerald they were carrying?” Knuckles asked,

               “No… This place’s magic is disorienting, I can barely sense the Emerald Vector has.” Shadow said as Vector looks surprised.

               “We just wanted you to be informed, our employer seems suspicious, so we don’t have a lot of time before he thinks we’re up to something.” Espio said,

               “Thank you, keep the Emerald with you I’ll be able to keep tabs on you after were out of here.” Shadow said. They nod and head in another direction.

               “Knuckles, you said before you could see Shadow’s chaos energy pulling towards something, now that we know it’s Sonic can you use that to point us in a direction?” Miles suggested,

               “Sadly after they met up Shadow’s energy went back to normal.” Knuckles said,

               “We need to get moving… If Robotnik get his hands on him he’ll use him as a living battery. I won’t let him be used like that,” Shadow said as they quickly move forward now worried that something terrible might happen to Sonic.

               Rouge was smacking her communicator trying to get it to work, “Stupid thing!” She said following after Omega who was trying to find another way through the secret tunnel. “How is it you are functioning fine?” She asked,

               “I WAS CREATED TO BE ABLE TO FUNCTION THROUGH FLUCTUATIONS IN CHAOS ENERGY. THIS STRANGE ENERGY IS NOTHING.” Omega said as they continued their search.

               “Probably for the best… Shadow might freak…” Rouge said,

               “WHAT IS SHADOWS CONNECTION TO SONIC?” Omega asked, “SENSORS SHOWED THEIR CHAOS ENERGY WAS ATTRACTED TO THE OTHER.”

               “That’s complicated… I worked hard to keep it a secret, but I can only say that while Sonic makes too much energy, Shadow doesn’t make enough, they balance each other out.” Rouge said,

               “THIS WAS NOT IN THE ARC RECORDS.” Omega said,

               “That’s because I removed it. I didn’t need Robotnik knowing.” Rouge said,

               “IF ROBOTNIK FOUND OUT HE WOULD USE IT AGAINST HIM.” Omega said, seeing Rouge nod. They understood that she not only did it to protect Sonic but to also protect Shadow. “I HAVE A CONFESSION.”

               “What is it Hun?” She asked,

               “I ONLY AGREED TO JOIN YOU BOTH TO INCREASE MY CHANCES OF FINDING ROBOTNIK. I KNEW ROBOTNIK WAS AFTER HIM.” Omega said as Rouge turns to face them.

               “Why are you telling me this Omega?” She asked,

               “I…” They pause, “I DO NOT KNOW WHY.”

               “I think do, you feel regret.” Rouge said. She hears beeps,

               “REGRET: TO FEEL SORROW OR REMORSE FOR YOUR ACTIONS.” Omega said, “BUT I DO NOT FEEL.”

               “You’ve shown me on multiple occasions that you can. You just never knew how to describe it.” Rouge said. “I figured that was the reason you joined us. But I appreciate you being honest. I just hope we make it to him in time.” Omega takes that moment to fully process everything Rouge told them.

               “I AM SENSING A CHAOS SIGNATURE LET US FOLLOW IT. WE WILL FIND HIM.” Omega said as they quicken their pace.

               Vector turns the radio back on, “Hey you there boss? We went through a weird area, so we lost you.” He lied quickly to cover their tracks.

               “I was beginning to worry you had gotten caught. Have you found the Blue Hedgehog yet?” their employer asked,

               “No this place is rather confusing.” Espio said.

               “You must hurry there isn’t much time left.” The voice said,

               “What does that mean?” Charmy asked,

               “That’s not important! Just hurry!” They heard a click perhaps meaning their employer shut down communications.

               “This is getting more and more fishy,” Vector said,

               “I agree, I’m glad we were about to get a message out at least.” Espio said as they give each other a nod before going up to another orb and warping to another part of the manor.

               “You can put me down now,” Sonic said as Big gently puts him down. He stretches before handing him back the Chaos Emeralds.

               “Are you feeling better?” Amy asked,

               “Yeah thanks again for your help. Now I just gotta figure out how to find my friends.” Sonic said looking around. He wasn’t sure how long they were walking but he definitely didn’t recognize where they were.  

               “It might be better if you just stick with us until we get out of here. This place is too confusing to navigate.” Amy said,

               “You have a point. I just hope Rouge isn’t panicing too much… Why are you here anywhay?” He asked,

               “We believe Robotnik kiddnapped our friends Chocola and Froggy.” Cream said,

               “That Egghead sure likes to cause people problems.” Sonic said as Cheese flies up and nuzzles his cheek, “Hey that tickles.”

               “Chao!”

               “Cheese is happy that you’re feeling better.” Cream smiles,

               “Thanks bud.” Sonic smiles patting the Chao’s head,  

               Above them floated a familiar flying craft that Robotnik was sitting in. “There you are old man!” Amy yelled as Sonic looks up seeing him. “What are you up to that you need Chocola and Froggy for?”

               “Please give Chocola back!” Cream said,

               “And Froggy!” Big said,

               “That’s none of your buisness little girl!” Robotnik said, “I’m here for Sonic.” Four massive robots drop down surrounding them.

               “You finally decide to help me get my memories back?” Sonic said crossing his arms,

               “I had always intended to help you Sonic, I just need you to come with me to do so.” Robotnik said sweetly. “That Omega interupted our last conversation. I will need to run some tests to find out how to return your memories.”

               Sonic’s quills raise, he didn’t like that word… Tests… His instincts were telling him he needed to run, but these three helped him, he couldn’t leave them to deal with him. “Fine,” Sonic said as the three of them turn towards him Surprised,

               “What?” Amy asked confused,

               “Only if you let their friends go.” Sonic said as Robotnik also looks confused.

               “Sonic what are you doing?” Cream asked,

               “Chao, Chao!”

               "Repaying you for your help,” Sonic said, “What do you say Egghead?”

               “Well aren’t you the little negotiator.” Robotnik grins widely. Sonic recognized that smile, it was identical to the one the fake bobble head Robotnik had at the mines. This was obviously another fake but perhaps the fake could take him to the real deal… either way, there’s no turning back now.      

Chapter Text

               Rouge picks up the Chaos Emerald which they now knew was the source of Omega’s targeted chaos energy. “For the first time in my life… I’m upset at finding a gem…”

               “I AM SENSING AN AREA THAT IS BLOCKING MY SENSORS. SUGESTION TO CHECK OUT THAT AREA AND CONFIRM SONIC IS NOT THERE.” Omega said as Rouge nods,

               “Lead the way,” Rouge said as she follows after them. “Do you think that signal is jamming my comms?”

               “AFFIRMATIVE.” Omega said,

               “Robotnik has to be here… We need to hurry.” Rouge said as they both quicken their pace.

               “Sonic… Don’t do this.” Amy pleaded with him, “We won’t let you trade places for them.” She stood between him and Robotnik. They hadn’t really known each other but there was no way she’d let Robotnik hurt him because she knew he would.   

               “This is my choice Amy. You want your friends back don’t you?” Sonic asked,

               “Not at the risk of him taking you.” She said with a huff. Amy remembered vividly how devastated Shadow was after Sonic sacrificed himself to save everyone. She didn’t want to see him hurting like that again.

               “You don’t even know me, why do you care?” Sonic asked a little annoyed that she wasn’t accepting his help. Wasn’t this their goal? To save their friends?  

               “Because someone I care about cares for you.” Amy said as Sonic looks confused and conflicted feeling his heart start to race. He had someone who cared for him that wasn’t Rouge or Omega? Was this a mistake?

               Robotnik’s unnatural smile goes away as he begins to realize that Amy was starting to change his mind. He presses a button, and more robots appear around them. Robots identical to the one that captured Sonic previously.

               Sonic’s ears pin back seeing them. He did not like those robots. “I’m not a very patient man Hedgehog, I’ll accept your deal if you come with me willingly. Or we do this the hard way.”

               “We choose the Hard way.” Amy said summoning her hammer getting ready to fight.

               “We won’t let you take Mr. Sonic!” Cream said. Sonic was so confused, sure these people were kind enough to help him but now they wanted to fight for him? What made him worth that type of reaction.

               “W…why?” Sonic asked.

               “Because I have the power to help.” Amy said, Sonic’s eyes widen. There’s a flash of a memory, seeing Amy in front of him with tears in her eyes begging for his help.

               A voice he didn’t recognize echoes through his head… “Use your power to protect those in need.”

               His energy sparks wildly as Amy, Cream and Big step away from Sonic, “No… I’ll handle them.” Sonic said and in a blue blur they see all the robots surrounding them be destroyed until only Robotnik remained.

               “Wow…” All three of them say stunned at what they witnessed.

               “Deals off Egghead! Now give them their friends back before I make you.” Sonic said as Robotnik slams his fists down onto his craft.

               “Why are you making this so difficult? I won’t stop until you give up.” Robotnik said as Sonic confidently grins.

               “Give me your best shot.” Sonic said as more robots appear. He looks back at the other three, “Don’t let the jellyfish looking ones get above you or you’ll get caught.” They all nod before charging at their attackers.   

               Shadow had been silently panicking this entire time trying to get the communicator Rouge gave him to work. Not knowing if they were alright was driving him mad and he was unsure how much more he could take before he snaps.

               “Don’t worry Shadow, we’ll find him.” Miles reassures him.

               “I want to destroy this place.” Shadow said noticing that Knuckles was also looking worried. “Perhaps we should just break the walls down and plow straight forward.”

               “I’d agree with you… If we knew which direction was forward… for all we know we could be running in circles.” Knuckles said and Shadow knew he was right. Even if they got to the highest room in the tallest tower they still would have no idea what side they came in from and which way to go.    

               “Have you guys noticed that there’s been less ghosts the longer we’ve ben here?” Miles asked, “What if the strange magic of this place only works at night?”

               Shadow looks at the sky, it was true that it was close to sunrise. “You may be on to something, if that’s the case we should keep moving.” Shadow said following their path forward.

               Each robot Sonic took down, two more took its place. He destroyed any mech that charged towards them. “Your new friends are starting to get tired Sonic.” Robotnik taunted. Sonic looks back at them all short of breath way past their limits. They weren’t going to last much longer.

               “Give up Hedgehog, you can’t win.” Robotnik laughs.

               Sonic wished Rouge and Omega were here… He wished he knew if that was the real Robotnik or not so he could go straight for him instead and stop all the useless fighting. But if that really was Robotnik he might accidently kill him… Like he feared he accidently did at the mines.

               Should he give up?

               No, he had that thought already. He has the power to keep going, he could keep them safe. He just had to continue moving.

               Faster

               With another spark of energy he continues his momentum. “Make a path the way we came, I’ll keep them busy to buy time.” Sonic said not stopping his momentum. He knew if he stopped picking up speed they would lose.

               “Big, plow through in that direction.” Amy pointed as the large cat nods before charging ahead making a path for them to escape. “Let’s go Cream.” Amy said as they run through the path. “Sonic c’mon!”

               “Keep running! I’m right behind you.” Sonic said, she reluctantly agrees and keeps running. But that was a lie, he needed to keep the robots distracted long enough so they could escape. As long as he kept his momentum he could keep going and meet up with them when they are a safe distance away.

               Robotnik’s unnatural grin returns as he sees the blue hedgehog jump into the air to make an attack. Pressing a button on his craft a pulse hits Sonic that throbs through his ears as he cries out in pain falling down back onto the terrace surrounded by robots as they slowly close in.

               “It was a valiant effort. Something Shadow would do.” Wait… who was Shadow? Why did that name sound important? “But enough games, we must get back to the fleet to finish the final preparations.” Robotnik said.

               One of the mechs reaches down to grab him as they are hit with a barrage of bullets and explosions blasting them back away from him. “INITIATING FULL FRONTAL ASSAULT.” Sonic looks up seeing Omega and Rouge rush to his side.

               “You alright Blue?” Rouge said helping him up to his feet.  

               “Am I glad to see you guys.” Sonic gave a relieved smile as he took this chance to catch his breath. “A second later and I’d be a goner…”

               “We’ll won’t make our dramatic entrance as dramatic next time,” She joked as he chuckles. A feeling of safety washes over him, he knew his friends had his back. Omega finishes off the Robots with a satisfied hum.

               Robotnik’s expression sours as he sees Sonic’s friends arrive. “Omega, can you tell if that’s the real deal?” Sonic asked.

               “JAMMING SIGNAL DETECTED. DIFFICULT TO DETERMINE WHETHER REAL ROBOTNIK OR NOT.” Omega said as Sonic clicks his tongue annoyed.

               “Doesn’t matter we’ll figure out in the end.” Rouge said,

               “Very well if you’re going to continue to be difficult.” Robotnik’s unnatural smile returns. “I’ll just make you come to me.”    

               They hear a scream that Sonic recognizes it as Cream’s voice.

               “Cream!” They hear Amy yell,

               “What did you do?” Sonic snarled,

               “Meet me on my armada’s flagship and perhaps the girl will be unharmed.” Robotnik laughs flying away as Sonic doesn’t hesitate running in the direction he heard Amy yell.

               “Sonic wait!” Rouge chased after him followed by Omega.

               “Amy!” Sonic sees Big trying to console Amy who was on her knees sobbing. “Are you hurt?”

               “One of those robots grabbed Cream and Cheese and flew off before we could stop them…” Amy continued to cry. Rouge and Omega catch up seeing Sonic look guilty.

               “Amy?” Rouge sees her kneeling next to her, “What in the world are you doing in a place like this Hun?” Sonic looked confused; did they know each other?”  

               “Robotnik took our friends froggy and Chocola.” Big said as Amy was trying to calm down.

               “Now he’s taken Cream and Cheese… It’s my fault… I shouldn’t have brought them here…” Amy said. This was a mistake; she should have listened to Shadow when he told them to go home. “They must be so scared…”

               “You can beat yourself up later. We can’t let him get that much of a head start.” Rouge said helping her to her feet.

               “Wait… you’re going to help us?” Amy asked looking at Rouge confused,

               “Seeing that was a threat pointed at Sonic we don’t have a choice. And leaving the two of you alone might get you caught as well.” Rouge said, “Besides, you’re not the only one who feels guilty.” She glances back at Sonic who was keeping a step back. It was written all over his face that he blamed himself.

               “Thank you.” Amy said,

               “Take a moment to compose yourself Hun. I need to have a word with Sonic.” Rouge said as she nods to her before Rouge quickly walks towards Sonic.

               His ears droop knowing she was going to yell at him for going too far ahead. “I’m sorry for rushing ahead…” He started hoping that might diffuse her rage, but he’s taken off guard as she pulls him into a hug.

               “I’m glad you’re okay. That must have been scary.” She said as Sonic flinches. She knew he was just putting on an act. She could feel him shake slightly before he holds her back.

               “Sorry…” Sonic said softly,

               “Lets go teach Robotnik not to mess with us.” Rouge said letting go of the hug as Sonic steps back giving her a smile and a thumbs up.

               “Let’s do it.”

               The sun begins to rise as the Chaotix make their way out of the Manor. Vector lets out a relieved sigh. “That place was awful…” He said.

               “Agreed,” Espio said,

               Their radio turns back up. “Listen closely, Amongst Robotnik’s flying armada is a flag ship that looks like a whale shark. I want you to make your way to that flag ship. However it will be difficult now that they are on high alert due to the Blue Hedgehog wreaking havoc.”

               “I thought you wanted us to find the Blue Hedgehog?” Espio asked,

               “Now that you’re within the armada that won’t be necessary. Now hurry we don’t have much time.” They said,

               Vector and Espio give each other a look, they knew they were getting close to the truth about their employer and what was actually going on. A part of them were worried they we not going to like what they discover. But they knew it was far beyond going back now.

               “It looks like your theory was correct.” Shadow said relieved as they escape the manor. They look up and can see the armada. He takes out the communicator, to his relief the static was gone. He immediately tries to contact Rouge.

               “Everything alright Hun?” Rouge answered, the loud sound of wind behind her.

               “Where are you?” Shadow asked,

               “On one of the Armada ships. Why? Are we beating you now? Sonic will love hearing that.” She joked,

               “This is serious Rouge, Robotnik’s target is Sonic. You need to get him out of there.” Shadow said.

               “Oh is that all? We’ve known that for a while Hun.” Rouge said,

               “Damnit Rouge he’s in danger!” Shadow snarled,

               “He can take care of himself. And even if we wanted to… We can’t stop now.” Rouge said, “He took a girl and her Chao hostage. If we don’t go she could get hurt. Try to get to the flagship as quick as you can we may need backup.”

               “Rouge let’s go.” Shadow heard Amy’s voice,

               “Wait, is Rose with you too?” Shadow asked,

               “Sorry Hun gotta fly.” She hung up on him. Shadow puts the communicator away before he crushes it in his grip.

               “So Cream and Cheese are their bait?” Knuckles said,

               “Why didn’t they go home when I told them to?” Shadow said pinching the bridge of his nose sounding annoyed, “Now we need to hurry…”    

               “How are we going to get up there?” Miles asked as Shadow pulls out one of the Chaos Emeralds.

               “Hold tight, it’s going to be windy up there.” Shadow said as his little brother take a tight grip of his hand and Knuckles grasps onto his shoulder. “Chaos Control.”

               They warp onto one of the armada ships. Shadow braces holding his brothers hand tightly to make sure he doesn’t fly off. It took them a moment to adjust as they quickly realize their presence was expected.

               “Ho, Ho, Ho! You Fools! I see you’ve managed to make it here.” They hear Robotnik’s voice on an intercom system that seemed to echo form all of the ships. “Behold the most fearsome, most powerful armada in the world, conceived by a genius! Now then, witness firsthand the overwhelming terror that is my ultimate conception!”

               “One of these ships is the Flag ship. Robotnik will be there.” Shadow said,

               “Let’s finish this before one of these gets close to my Island.” Knuckles said.

               “Talking to that Hot headed Echidna?” Sonic asked as Rouge caught up to them as she looked at him confused,

               “Now what might you be insinuating Blue?” She asked as the five of them continued to move at a steady pace from ship to ship.

               “It’s written all over your face.” Sonic laughed, “I may not know what my type is, but I can clearly see what’s yours.” Sonic teased with a wink as she turns slightly red.

               “VITALS SHOW INCREASED HEART RATE.” Omega chimes in as she flinches,  

               “Now you two are ganging up on me?.” She gasps dramatically as he chuckles.

               “Are we sure we’re going the right way?” Amy asked.

               “SCANS INDICATE RADIO SIGNAL IS COMING FROM THIS DIRECTION.” Omega said pointing the direction they were heading towards,

               “I hope Froggy and the others are okay…” Big said,

               “Don’t worry Big. We’ll make sure Egghead pays for this.” Sonic said. He wasn’t going to let him get away with this. He’s going to regret inviting them onto their doorstep.

               “FLAGSHIP SPOTTED.” Omega points out. Unlike the rest of the ships this one was triple in size and grey in color.

               “All the battleships we’ve seen were pretty huge, but this one really stands out.” Rouge said,

               “THIS IS ROBOTNIKS FORETRESS. IT WILL BE COMPLETELY DESTROYED.” Omega said,

               “We need to save the others first.” Amy said not liking how Omega was wanting to go straight to destruction.

               “We’ll rescue them.” Sonic reassured her but he was starting to feel uneasy. No, he must be imagining things, with Rouge and Omega by his side he knew everything would be alright.

               The clouds had begun to darken, and a storm was brewing. The Chaotix managed to make their way onto the flagship. “I’m honestly impressed you made it here.” Their employer said.

               “I don’t like how condescending you’re being.” Espio said,

               “Yeah we’ve done everything you’ve asked.” Charmy said,

               “Enough, this is your final mission. To tell you quite frankly… I’ve been locked up in a room on this flagship the entire time.” Their employer said,

               “Explains why you weren’t able to do all of this yourself.” Vector spat.

               “That flash drive I had you retrieve will help you unlock the room I’m in. Hurry and rescue me before he finishes the final stage of his plan!” The voice said,

               “So we’re finally going to meet our client.” Charmy said, “And we’re going to get our reward! We’re going to get our reward!”

               “It seems to look that way.” Vector said, in all honesty… he didn’t know if he was prepared to see their employer. With everything that’s happened this all might get worse before it gets better.

               Shadow leads Miles and Knuckles as they finally find the flagship. The storm was now raging, and it was becoming more dangerous. One false step and one of them could slip and fall.

               “It’s hard to make it out with how massive this place is but pretty sure I can sense all seven Chaos Emeralds.” Knuckles said. Shadow could sense the same thing and that made him feel uneasy.

               “I’m beginning to worry that this has all been planned from the beginning… There was no Ultimate weapon, it was just a ploy to get us here. And if Sonic’s here he may be running right into a trap.” Shadow said, he now regretted letting Rouge and him go off on their own… If they had stayed together perhaps he could keep them all safe.

               “Then let’s go make sure everyone is okay.” Miles reassures him as he smiles.

               “Both of you stay close. We have no idea what Robotnik is truly planning, and we need to be ready for anything.” Shadow said as they both nod and continue forward at a faster pace.

               “I’ll clear any bots that get in our way.” Knuckles said slamming his namesakes together. “This place puts the Egg carrier to shame.” Shadow nods remembering back to when Robotnik was attempting to use Chaos to take over the world and that backfired. He barely managed to stop Perfect Chaos from destroying Station Square using his Super form. But he knew that with his friends helping him they would get there and stop whatever Robotnik was planning.

               Omega clears a path and stops, loud processing beeps as they stare ahead towards their targeted path. “Something bothering you Omega?” Rouge asked noticing his pause.

               “STRONG ENERGY READINGS RECORDED. READINGS EXCEED DEFINED MEASUREMENT BOUNDS.” Omega said,

               “Can we get that translated?” Sonic asked,

               “I AM DETECTING SOMETHING POWERFUL UP AHEAD.” Omega reiterated.

               “That must mean we’re getting close,” Rouge said,

               “We need to be careful, Robotnik could have any kinds of traps waiting for us.” Amy said,

               “Froggy!” Big called out.

               “No matter what happens, you and Big stay back and let the three of us handle it. but if you see an opportunity to save Cream and Cheese don’t hesitate to take it.” Rouge said,

               “She’s right, let us bash Eggman’s face in.” Sonic said,

               “I WILL BE THE ONE TO DESTROY ROBOTNIK.” Omega said,

               “Sure but let me a least get a good punch in first.” Sonic said,

               “I ACCEPT THESE TERMS.” Omega said as Sonic chuckles. “I SHALL DESTROY AND DECIMATE THIS SHIP COMPLETELY.”

               “We’ll keep back but please be careful.” Amy said as they make it to a long platform at the very front of the ship. Robotnik was waiting for them hovering in his small craft. Beside him was a robot holding onto Cream and Cheese.

               “This game of tag is over Robotnik, let them go!” Rouge said as Robotnik laughs.

               “READY TO INTERCEPT.” Omega said,

               “Oh ho, ho! Very well, I only needed them to get you here.” Robotnik said as the robot releases them, and they quickly fly over as Amy embraces them both.

               “Are you two okay?” She asked,

               “We’re okay Miss Amy… just a little scared.” Cream said,

               “Chao!”

               “You all stay back,” Sonic said to them, they all take a step away. Sonic looks at Robotnik as he is surrounded by a gargantuan robot mech wielding a lance and shield.

               “MECH IDENTIFIED AS EGG EMPEROR.” Omega said,

               “How gaudy.” Rouge said as Sonic stretches really quick.

               “It’s time for us to finally crack a few eggs.” Sonic grins,

               “I’ll show you what real evil is. Prepare to meet your doom!” Robotnik said as they all got ready to charge forward. They knew this was the deciding battle and the three of them were determined to win.

is was the deciding battle and the three of them were determined to win.

Chapter Text

               “It’s time to finish this.” Sonic said as they all charge at the Egg Emperor mech. And without a word they all attack simultaneously. Omega hits the mech with a barrage of bullets as Rouge kicks the shield out of the way and Sonic strikes the Mech in the center of its chest hitting what looked to be its power source.

               “You’re going to regret messing with us.” Sonic said as Rouge catches him midair, and she throws him at the mech striking it in the head.

               “Give him everything you’ve got Hun!” She said as Omega charges a heavy attack.

               “FACE THE POWER YOU HAVE PRODUCED IN ME DR. ROBOTNIK!” Omega said blasting the mech as it staggers backwards unable to make any kind of counter attack.  

               “Don’t get ahead of yourselves just yet you worthless worms.” Robotnik said slamming the shield onto the ground causing the entire warship to shake. Sonic loses his footing as he slips on the slick surface caused by the raging storm, Rouge barely manages to grab him before he falls.

               “We need to get rid of that shield. I have a plan, remember what you did at the mines?” Rouge said as Sonic nods, “Do you think you can do it again?”  

               Sonic smiles at the idea as he looks over giving Omega a thumbs up who returns the action. “You got me if I slip?” Sonic asked as she smiles back,

               “Always Hun.” She said and in a blink Sonic dashes ahead running around Robotnik’s mech faster and faster until a wind tunnel begins to build. Big grabs onto Amy, Cream and Cheese making sure they aren’t pulled into the cyclone.

               The gust yanks the shield out of Robotnik’s mechs grasp as Sonic stops with a skid, “Now!” He yelled as Omega unleashes every piece of his arsenal at the mech causing it to explode.

               “How could this be! I am the greatest genius in the whole wide world!” Robotnik cried out as the remains of the mech collapses.

               “LARGE-SIZED HIGH-PERFORMANCE BATTLE ROBOT SUCCESSFULLY DESTROYED.” Omega said with happy beeps.

               “Sorry Doctor, but you brought this upon yourself.” Rouge said also feeling satisfied with their result. Amy was impressed at the fluid teamwork happy they were able to help.

               “You all okay?” Sonic asked as Big lets go of his protective grip. Amy quickly runs up to him giving him a hug as he stiffens not expecting the embrace.

               “Thank you for helping us.” Amy said as Sonic chuckles,

               “It’s the lease I can do. Let’s see if we can grab Egghead and make him give your friends back.” He said as they all head towards the wreckage of the mech.

               The Chaotix finally find a sealed room. Espio takes out the flash drive and begins to unlock the door. “Oi! We’re here to rescue you.” Vector said as the door opens, “Doctor Robotnik.”

               The three of them see Robotnik sitting there with a Chaos Emerald next to him as Charmy looks surprised. “Huh?” Charmy said,

               “I’m impressed you knew it was me.” Robotnik said getting up to his feet.  

               “That’s just part of the trade, us being detectives.” Vector said crossing his arms. “We just don’t know why…”

               “Was this all a game to you?” Espio asked,

               “You meanie!” Charmy said,

               “Wait! Wait! This all was not a game! Your reward for your troubles will still be granted! As soon as I become emperor of the whole world, and with you as my most valued benefactors. Half of the world will be yours.” Robotnik said,

               “You WOULD REALLY have the guts to think we’d accept THAT?” Vector said popping his knuckles.

               “Prepare yourself.” Espio said,

               “Wha! Stop what you’re doing! You three! A… allow me to explain!” Robotnik said taking a step back. A loud strike of lightning shakes the entire ship.

               “Fine, out with it. Who the heck has been impersonating you so he could take the world for himself?” Vector asked,

               “It was…”

               Team Dark and Team Rose search around the remains of the Mech as Amy is the first to find Robotnik. “I found him!” Amy calls out as they all rush over towards her. She noticed there was a strange liquid metal around the body that she only assumed was another robot.   

               “TARGET DOCTOR ROBOTNIK WAS ANOTHER FAKE.” Omega said sounding disappointed.

               The six of them watch as the fake Robotnik begins to melt into liquid metal and out of the strange substance appears a brown colored Chao and a frog.

               “Froggy!” Big cheers as the frog hops into his hands and he places him in his head. The two Chao begin flying around one another happily.

               “Chao-chao!”

               “Uh… is melting robots normal?” Sonic asked as both Rouge and Omega shake their heads.

               “I’ve never seen anything like it.” Rouge said. “Perhaps that’s why it could look like Doctor Robotnik.”

               “Thank you all again for your help in rescuing our friends.” Cream said as Sonic and Rouge smile.

               “At least one good thing came out of this…Guess we’re back at square one.” Sonic said with a shrug and a sigh,

               “I WILL SCAN FOR ANY OTHER CLUES ON THE DOCTORS WHEREABOUTS.” Omega said as they hear calculative beeps as they searched the databases for Robotnik,  

               “That might be true… but there might be another way to get your memories back…” Rouge said as she turns around to face him. “But I only want to go down that path if you truly want your memories back.” She said seriously as he ponders.  

               He remembers all the times he’s had flashes of terrifying things but between those thoughts… Amy’s words kept ringing in his ear… That someone besides Rouge and Omega cares about him. Every time he thinks there might be someone out there looking for him it makes his heart race. He needed to know.

               “I do. I want to know who I am. Scars and all.” Sonic said as Rouge gives him a smile seeing the determination on his face.

               “Then we’re going to need the help of a certain hero.” Rouge said with a sigh, “Honestly I thought he’d be here by now…” She looks a little annoyed as she crosses her arms.

               None of them noticed that while they were all talking, the liquid metal slowly made its way closer to Rouge. Before any of them could react, they see the liquid metal rise up and hovers over her like a massive wave about to crash into its target.

               “Rouge!” Sonic moves faster than any of them could blink pushing her out of the liquids path as it crashes into him. But instead of expecting to see Sonic just covered in liquid metal… he was gone.

               Rouge hits the ground seeing the liquid hit with a splash, her companion nowhere to be seen. “Where’d he go?” Amy said horrified,

               “Did that metal thing eat him?” Cream asked as Amy pulls her further away from the moving liquid.

               “Sonic?” Rouge said not completely processing what just happened. “Sonic!”

               Sonic didn’t know what happened. He saw that strange metal liquid hit him and then… nothing… He couldn’t move, he couldn’t see. That was until he saw a pair of artificial red irises stare back at him.

               “I knew you’d push her out of the way.” He heard a mechanical chuckle. Who was this guy? “I finally have you where I want you Project S.” Sonic could now fully see the form in front of him. He looked like the striped Hedgehog that talked to Rouge but was completely made of metal.

               “That’s not my name.” Sonic snarled,

               “Ah yes, you go by Sonic, the Chaos Drive Generator.” The stranger said as Sonic tries to move, but his limbs felt held by an uncomfortable weight. He wanted to strike this guy down. Why couldn’t he move? “You are the perfect energy source to fulfil my plans.”

               “I won’t let you use my energy.” Sonic said as the voice laughs before roughly grabbing him by the face.

               “You might not have realized your current situation boy. Especially since you’re more easy to manipulate with those missing memories.” He said as Sonic feels something tighten around his head.

               His head began to throb and his vision tunnels, “Stop!” He cried out before it felt like his mind was starting to blank.

               “Don’t worry, it’ll all be over soon.” He said as Sonic’s vision goes completely black.

               Shadow hears Rouge call out as they see the remains of the mech. He dashes forward before Knuckles or Miles could stop him recognizing there was fear in Rouge’s tone. He prayed he wasn’t too late.

               “Omega stop scanning and tell me what this is!” Rouge demanded as Omega stops their scans looking down at the puddle of liquid metal.

               “THE METAL LIQUID IS JAMMING MY SCANS.” Omega said as the metal continues to move.

               “What’s going on?” Shadow asked coming up to them.

               “Shadow!” Amy said excitedly as she rushes up to hug him, but he turns and looks at her with a frightening glare as she stops. She had never seen him give her a look like that before…

               “I… I don’t know… We beat Robotnik’s fake again and it turned into liquid metal… We were planning out next move when it moved and…” Rouge stops knowing Shadow was going to freak… He glances around,

               “Where is Sonic?” Shadow asked just as Knuckles and Miles catch up to them.

               “You could have waited for us.” Knuckles said,

               “Rouge!” Shadow yelled causing her to flinch, “Where is he?” She glances down at the liquid metal.

               “I… I don’t know… that thing moved and when it hit him he disappeared.” She said seeing the horrified look on Shadow’s face.

               “Chaos Data…” They all hear a robotic voice coming from the liquid. “Successfully copied.” The metal begins to rise and take a solidified form as Shadow begins to recognize it.

               “Metal?” Shadow said surprised as they all take a step back. No, he looked different, his spines were elongated, and he was taller and wore a red cape around his belt.

               “That’s Neo Metal Shadow,” He corrected, “It’s been a long time hasn’t it? My loathsome copy.”

               Shadow snarls, “What have you done with Sonic?” Neo Metal Shadow laughs.

               “He’s hidden away inside me. To serve his purpose as the energy source for my ultimate plan.” Neo said as Shadow grabs him by the neck holding a Chaos Spear ready to strike him. “Oh? Are you willing to risk his safety to strike me down? Mr. Hero?”

               Shadow hesitates, if Sonic was truly somewhere inside him he couldn’t risk hurting him… Neo takes this opportunity to strike Shadow freeing himself from his grip before disappearing. “Omega!” Rouge said as they scan the area and points at the top of the craft seeing him stare down at them.

               “Now begins the time that all living things shall kneel before me.” Neo Metal Shadow said. He raises his hand towards the sky as a bolt of blue energy bursts forth from it similar to the energy that surges off of Sonic when he is overcharged, into the sky.

               The entire top part of the carrier explodes as the pieces start to reform.

               The Chaotix and Robotnik rush up seeing them all witness this destruction. “What in blazes is going on?” Vector said,

               “Curse you Metal Shadow! He finally accomplished what he wanted. Becoming Metal Overlord.” Robotnik said as they see Metal Shadow’s form reshape into a Dragon like machine.

               “Explain quickly Doctor, how do we beat him.” Shadow said,

               “It’s no use… Metal Sonic has copied the respective data of each of you and that of Chaos and now he’s practically invincible,” Robotnik said. Shadow could now see it; Neo Metal Shadow’s new form was similar in shape to Perfect Chaos. “There’s no way we can stop him now.”  

               “I don’t accept that as an option Doctor.” Shadow said, He couldn’t give up… not while he had Sonic.

               “If only we had the Seven Chaos Emeralds right now…” Robotnik said as they all hold out revealing that as a group they possessed all seven. “Oh! However… even if we can call fourth a miracle from these stones. Since he has Sonic as his energy source… Our chances of actually defeating him are very slim.”

               “CHAOS SIGNATURE IDENTIFIED AS SONIC THE HEDGEHOG LOCATED AT CORE OF MACHINE.” Omega said. Shadow and Rouge turn towards Omega. They had kept scanning this entire time for him.

               “If we can get Sonic out of there, Neo Metal won’t have anything to keep his form going.” Tails said,

               “I will keep Metal busy; he won’t be able to harm me in my Super form.” Shadow said,

               “We’ll help you. I can help you maintain your super form for longer.” Knuckles said as Tails nods.

               “Thank you both.” Shadow said with a smile,

               “We’ll need a way inside…” Rouge said,

               “Leave that to us.” Vector said,

               “Once we make an opening you two go in and save Sonic.” Amy said. Rouge and Omega nod.

               “Everyone ready?” Shadow asked as they all nod, “Let’s show him what we’re made of.” The Chaotix and Team Rose charge with Rouge and Omega right behind them as Shadow prepares to use the Chaos Emeralds.

               “Your efforts are useless, weaklings.” Metal Overlord said as fire blasts forth from his hand and they all barely fly out of the way.

               “Cream, Charmy, follow me.” Amy said as they go with her, “Hey you ugly pile of bolts! We’re over here!” She yelled getting his attention as she throws her hammer at him and his head follows their movement.

               “Do you really think you can buy off time?” Metal Overlord said swinging his tail at them as Cream grabs Amy’s hand and they fly up. Amy throws her hammer at Metal trying to make sure to keep his attention.

               The rest of them sneak closer now that Metal Overlord was distracted as Espio disappears quietly carving into the metal. He needed to make sure he wasn’t discovered before he finished cutting through enough for them to get through.

               “Once we’ve opened it up, it’ll be up to you two to get him.” Vector said to Rouge and Omega. “We don’t know what you’ll run into in there.”

               “DO NOT CONCERN YOURSELF. WE WILL BE FINE.” Omega.

               “Meddlesome nuisances.” Metal Overlord said swatting at Charmy as he flew around his face. Espio waves to the others as they rush over. Vector and Big grab the sides and pull open the metal plating as Rouge and Omega don’t hesitate to jump into the belly of the beast.

               Like the metal was alive, it forces its way back closed. Big and Vector couldn’t hold it as their makeshift entrance sealed itself shut. “Wasn’t expecting that.” Vector said as they all back up and get ready to fight.

               The Seven Chaos Emeralds circle Shadow as they see his fur begin to glow gold. Metal Overlord turns seeing him start to glow letting out a chuckle. “You may be the Ultimate Lifeform. But you cannot stop me with what I have become.”

               “What you think you have become is only temporary.” Shadow said as a glowing forcefield appears around Knuckles and Miles as they hover with Shadow,

               “A robot kingdom requires a more than capable king. So then it shall be.” Metal Overlord said as the base pops out wings made out of scrap metal and he starts to lift off. “Well then my imperfect self. Let us see how long you last.” Shadow flew up with his friends by his side. He didn’t know how long the super form was going to last but hopefully Rouge and Omega can find Sonic quickly.  

               “This place is a maze… How close are we Omega?” Rouge asked as they were clawing through some of the metal. The further in they attempted to go it seemed like the walls around them were trying to stop their progress.

               “SCANS SHOW THAT WE ARE CLOSE… BUT VITALS ARE WEAK.” Omega said, moving the metal letting Rouge crawl through.

               “We need to hurry,” Rouge said,

               “ROUGE… GO AHEAD WITHOUT ME. I WILL CATCH UP WITH YOU.” Omega said as she nods turning around and running on ahead. Having to move through the metal until she finally makes it to the center.

               In the center she sees Sonic strung up with metal cords around his arms legs and torso and a metal band around his forehead. A blue energy occasionally flowing through them. “Oh Blue…” She quickly runs up to him. His fur looked less vibrant, and his eyes were glazed over half lidded. She reaches up trying to pull the band off his head.

               “Come on Hun, wake up.” She said struggling to get it off.

               “R…Rouge?” Sonic could hear her voice,

               “I’m here just hang on; we’re getting you out of here…” She keeps tugging at the band. “Why won’t this come off?”

               “What’s the point?...” Sonic said sounding defeated. The band stopping any attempts of thoughts of resistance. “This is all I am…”

               “Oh no you don’t! I’m not having this argument with you twice Sonic!” Rouge said. She fought at the band as it slips free. “Your original purpose was not to be the creation of the Chaos Drive. You were the first attempt at creating the Ultimate Lifeform.”

               The band being removed gave Sonic a bit of clarity, but he could feel any energy he had was constantly being drained. “The Ultimate Lifeform?” Sonic looks up at her confused. Rouge attempts to grab one of the cords but stops feeling the energy radiating off of them. If she touched them the combination of chaos energy and electricity might kill her.

               “Yes, you were created to help cure diseases with the power to rapidly healing.” Rouge tries to get him to focus, with the electrical current running though those metal cords she couldn’t remove them without Omega’s help. “Your abilities only showed in your speed and creation of energy, so you were retitled as Project S to help the Space station break away from the militaries control.”

               Sonic sees flashes of a man who looked similar to Robotnik kneel down and hug him whispering how he saved them. “Just because your original purpose changed then doesn’t mean it can’t now. Didn’t you help save Cream and Cheese from Robotnik?” Sonic slightly nods, “You were meant to help people Sonic.”  

               Omega finally tears their way through seeing Rouge talking to Sonic. They quickly scan his vitals seeing that a significant amount of energy was still being drained from him. Rouge turns towards them looking relieved, “Hun, I need your help.” She said as Omega continues to scan Sonic.   

               “TAMPERING WITH THE WIRING WILL CREAT FEEDBACK. ASSESSING POSSIBLE OUTCOMES.” Omega looks around the small room for anything that might help them free Sonic without him being harmed in the process.

               “Tired…” Sonic said lowering his head,

               “I need you to stay awake Hun,” Rouge said as Sonic grumbles.

               “POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS: FORCEFULLY REMOVE THE CORDS HOWEVER THERE WILL BE FEEDBACK INTO BOTH SONIC AND MYSELF. SECOND OPTION IS TO TRY TO USE PROJECTILES TO BREAK CONNECTION BUT WILL STILL RESULT IN FEEDBACK INTO SONIC…” Omega said as Rouge looks worried… She knew with how Sonic looked he wasn’t going to survive a hit from his own energy.

               “Do the second one…” Sonic said as Rouge turns back towards him shocked.

               “Blue you could be killed by your own energy.” Rouge said,

               “Yeah… but like you said I was meant to help people. And I’m not letting this guy use me to take over the world.” Sonic said, “I’d rather go down fighting…”

               “No we’re finding another way. I’m now going to let you sacrifice yourself a second time.” Rouge said looking frustrated as Sonic looks confused,

               “A second time?” Sonic asked, as Rouge flinches. Now was not the time to talk about what happened.

               “We can talk about it after we get you out of here ALIVE.” She said. Sonic could see the tears she was holding back. She was afraid of losing him again.

               “I have an idea about that…” Sonic said, “Should be able to absorb the energy while it’s hurting me and get my strength back.” Rouge looks towards Omega for confirmation that it could work.

               “IF WE ATTEMPT IT IMMEDEATLY THERE IS A TWENTY PERCENT INCREASE OF SURVIVAL RATE. BUT THAT AMOUNT DECREASES THE LONGER WE DISCUSS.” Omega said.

               “Do it.” Sonic said,

               “ROUGE, PLEASE STEP ASIDE.” Omega said as Rouge flies up kissing Sonic on the forehead,

               “You better survive Blue.” She said as he gives her a weak smile.

               “I’ll do what I can.” Sonic said as she flies behind Omega.

               “INITIATING LASERS.” Omega said as the tips of their left hands fingers opens up and lasers shoot out as Omega quickly cuts the cords below Sonic’s feet.

               He didn’t feel anything at first until all the cords beneath him were severed. Then he feels all of his muscles painfully tense and lock up from the feeling of electricity and Chaos energy coursing through his body. Sonic tries to concentrate on not blacking out as Omega starts to sever the cords above him. Rouge watched in terror worried for her friend praying he could push through.   

Chapter Text

               Super Shadow, Knuckles and Miles were keeping Metal Overlord distracted but Knuckles knew he couldn’t hold Shadow’s form for much longer. “Shadow…” Metal Overlord said, “I was created, as a robot, with defeating you as my only goal. However, I… I never seem to be able to… So I remodeled myself to accomplish my goal!”

               “So you had to degrade yourself into becoming a monster? You really think you can beat me with what you are now?” Shadow said blasting him with a Chaos Spear as he recoils back before countering with a blast of Ice that they barely dodge. “You two alright?”

               “Yeah!” Miles said confidently,

               “Of course… But we can’t keep this up forever.” Knuckles said.

               “I know… But they need more time.” Shadow said hoping Rouge and Omega would get to Sonic soon.

               “The past is in the past Shadow.” Metal Overlord said, “As for now… You are nothing more than specs of dust to me.” He grabs one of the armada ships holding it up above him. “Puny animals like you deserve this!” He throws the ship at them.

               “Chaos Blast!” Shadow’s attack hits the center of the ship breaking it in half as they all avoid getting hit.

               “Damn… This guy isn’t slowing down…” Knuckles said,

               “Is Metal Shadow really invincible?” Miles asked,

               “Just a little more… we can do this.” Shadow said but Knuckles could tell he was already out of breath… they were running out of time. “Let’s show him what we’re made of.”

               “Show me then!” Metal Overlord taunted “Show me what you’re made of against this brand new me! I am no longer afraid… I shall never be afraid of anything!”

               “So you were afraid of me before?” Shadow taunted back.

               “Look down at all my accomplishments as you like… Now that I’m proud to be this monster that I’ve become. All living things shall look up to me as their undisputed overlord!” Metal continues to boast as they see the core begin to spark with blue energy. “What?”

               “Too bad for you… It all ends here!” Shadow said as the three of them attack with full force.

               “How can this be? I have done everything! I am the undisputed king of all, Metal Shadow… I am the true Shadow.” Metal said beginning to fall,

               “We can’t let him fall! Help me get him back to the carrier!” Shadow said as the three of them use Chaos Control to warp them and Metal Overlord back to the flagship. They place Metal’s body down as it began to fall apart.

               “That was one heck of a fight…” Knuckles said as he and Miles are lowered back down next to Amy and the others,

               “Rouge! Omega!” Shadow called out looking around the scrap metal that continued to disassemble. He desperately looked for signs of them nearby, but he could barely feel Sonic’s presence.

               This couldn’t be happening… not again…

               He hears a loud bang and the bending of metal as he flies closer towards the spot seeing Omega’s claws rake through a sheet of metal. He grabs the metal and rips it away completely as Omega is surprised by the action but takes the help as they turn around as Shadow sees them holding Rouge and Sonic in his arms.

               Rouge grabs her head pained, “Ow…” Rouge said as Omega carries them out of the wreckage as the others all rush over.

               “You all did it!” Charmy cheered,

               “Great job!” Vector said,

               Shadow can’t take his eyes off of Sonic, he wasn’t moving, and his fur looked faded of it’s vibrant color. Omega starts to lay him down on the ground in front of them as Rouge starts checking him over glancing at Omega for confirmation.

               “VITALS ARE…” Omega paused; they did not want Rouge to be upset but not telling her would be worse. “VITALS ARE FADING…”    

               “No… No, no, no…” She holds Sonic’s face; he was becoming cold.

               “Miss Amy… Why isn’t Mr. Sonic waking up?” Cream asked as Amy hugs her close.

               “He… He…” She didn’t know what to say.

               “NO!” Shadow said kneeling down next to Sonic, there wasn’t much time remaining for his Super form, but it should be enough. “This time I’m saving him.” He gives Rouge a look as she nods helping him get a hold onto Sonic.

               Shadow hugs him tightly as he concentrates on giving his energy instead of taking. It took him a year to learn how to transfer Chaos Energy into another living creature. This wasn’t going to be like last time where he could do nothing but watch as Sonic gave up the last of his energy to save him. “I’m not losing you again.” He presses his forehead against Sonic’s.  

               All those watching see the golden glow of Shadow’s Super form transfers to Sonic as his dulled fur begins to become more vibrant. Rouge inches closer watching intently waiting for a sign of change.

               Sonic felt light, like he was floating, drifting. Why did it sound like someone was crying? “You deserve to live just as much as I do!” Sonic recognized that voice… why did they sound so upset? “You haven’t gotten to experience life like I have.”

               His vision begins to clear as he sees the striped Hedgehog in front of him, tears streaming down his face. Why was he crying? Was he crying for him?

               “Sorry Stripes, but I know you have a little brother to take care of. And he’d be heartbroken if you were gone.” Sonic heard his own voice… was this a memory?

               “Don’t do this!” He begged as the memory begins to fade…

               “I’m happy I finally got to meet you Shadow…”

               Sonic opens his eyes seeing the Striped hedgehog and Rouge looking down at him. “Shadow?” Sonic asked as Shadow’s breath hitches not expecting to hear recognition in his voice. Sonic reaches up to his cheek rubbing his thumb against his fur as if he was wiping away tears. “Don’t cry…”

               Shadow didn’t understand why he would say that. He wasn’t actively crying. But he reaches up and places his hand on top of Sonic’s leaning into the touch relishing in the calming feeling it gave him.

               He was okay… He was still here.

               “Welcome back Blue.” Rouge said wiping the tears away from her face. “You had us worried there for a bit.”

               “Sorry…” Sonic said sleepily, “Didn’t mean to worry you…” He lowers his hand beginning to doze off leaning his head against Shadows chest.

               “VITALS ARE RETURNING TO NORMAL.” Omega said as both Shadow and Rouge let out a sigh of relief.

               “Take care of him.” Shadow said as Rouge takes him from his arms.

               Shadow walks over to Neo Metal Shadow who’s form continued to revert back to his original design. “Why… Why can’t I defeat you?” Metal asked lowering his head defeated,

               “Because I have friends and allies that I can trust and count on.” Shadow said as Metal shuts down no longer having enough power to function. Shadow looks back at all the people who helped make this possible.  

               They had won

               Shadow’s ears twitch hearing the familiar sound of helicopters in the background. He knew that G.U.N. had finally arrived. Things might get more heated with them here. “Knuckles, can you get Prower back home?”

               “But what about you?” Miles asked looking at his brother worried, he knew what G.U.N did in the past and was afraid they would do something.

               “I need to make sure he’s alright… Plus if something does happen I need you two to get everyone else a safe distance.” Shadow said quietly as they both nod and move over to Amy and the others getting ready to leave,

               “And that pretty much does it for our job.” Vector said,

               “Hey… what about our reward?” Charmy asked,   

               “Speaking of which?” Vector said as the three Chaotix start looking around. They catch a glimpse of Robotnik attempting to sneak away. “Ya mongrel of a sucker!” He yells as they chase after him.  

               Rouge looked a bit panicked; she wasn’t expecting that G.U.N. would get here yet and she hasn’t had a chance to talk to them about Sonic… Or Omega for that matter.

               “Hello… Shadow the Hedgehog…” An older gentlemen in his late fifties said walking over as a few agents quickly grab Metal Shadow and drag him away. Shadow does little to stop them, better he locked up with G.U.N. instead of being back in the hands of Robotnik whom could do more harm.

               “Towers.” Shadow said with a venom to his voice. Commander Towers, the leader of G.U.N wasn’t the kind of man to come all the way to deal with one of Robotnik’s schemes. Shadow steps in the way of his path quickly figuring he was heading straight toward Rouge and Sonic.

               “Step aside… I’m not here for you.” Towers said looking down at Shadow with disdain.

               “If you’re here for the Hedgehog, you’ll have to go through me first.” Shadow said,

               “Don’t interfere Hero…” Towers said as Shadow holds back a snarl.

               “So you wish to involve the president then?” Shadow said as he sees Towers hand slightly flinch. Towers was a decorated soldier, able to hide being taken off guard. But Shadow knew who he truly was… He knew what kinds of things to say to get under his skin. And he hated that Shadow had a friendly relationship with the President after what happened on the ARC.

               “Are you admittingly stating you are harboring a criminal?” Towers shot back,

               “You would convict him of something he doesn’t remember doing?” Shadow asked, “Or did you forget that the President also knows Gerald Robotnik forced him to play out his scheme and sacrificed himself to save everyone?” Shadow knew he had the upper hand, regardless of what Towers planned. Shadow would do whatever it takes to make sure Sonic wasn’t locked up for his past actions… actions he was not in control of.

               “Regardless, he was already imprisoned for the past year by Robotnik as well and assisted in stopping this incident.” Rouge said chiming into the conversation still holding onto the unconscious Hedgehog tightly.

               “We will discuss your involvement in this later Agent Rouge.” Towers said, Rouge’s ears lower as she looks away,

               “Yes sir…” She said,

               “Very well Hero. But I would still suggest he come with us seeing as he is injured. And we’ll be confiscating the Robotnik tech as well” Towers said looking at Omega,

               “Fine, but I won’t be letting him out of my sight. There’s no way I trust you with him.” Shadow said.

               “The feeling’s mutual.” Towers spat back.

               The four of them are escorted to a helicopter as he glances back at his friends giving them a nod before they fly off.

               “He’ll be okay right?” Miles asked Knuckles still looking worried,

               “Shadow can handle himself, and if they try anything we’ll come to his rescue.” Knuckles said as Miles nods watching the helicopter fly off.

               Sonic stirs awake, he didn’t feel as sore as he sits up in a strange bed. There were strange chords attached to his arm as flashes of what happened race though in his head causing his spines to raise. He reaches to pull the wires out as a hand quickly stops him. “Easy,” Shadow said calmly, “Those aren’t hurting you, they’re there to help. Though I told them it wasn’t necessary.” Sonic didn’t know why his voice was so soothing to him.

               He glances around the room, it was small and there was a few monitors connected to the wires attached to him, some making noises and a strange clear bag with liquid inside, “This is probably a little jarring for you.” Shadow said as he nods,

               “Where’s Rouge and Omega?” He asked noticing it was just the two of them.

               “Rouge is talking with the Commander. I’m not sure what they did with Omega.” Shadow said checking Sonic over, he looked alright, and he was creating Chaos energy like he normally does.

               “Commander? Where are we?” Sonic asked, this was confusing, last he remembered was being inside… “What happened to that Metal guy that looked like you?” Shadow heard the monitors beeps increase,

               “He’s been shut down and detained, you’re safe.” Shadow tried to calm him. He felt guilty that Metal put a fear into his eyes as Sonic looked at him. “And to your other questions, we’re in the G.U.N headquarters while you recover. It’s short for Guardian Units of Nations. A military force. Their leader is Commander Towers.” Shadow explained,

               “And why is Rouge talking to him?” Sonic asked,

               “He is her boss.” Shadow said as Sonic looks confused, “Right, did she tell you she’s a Spy?”

               “Oh! yeah I remember her saying that.” Sonic said, “So this is where she spies on people?” Shadow couldn’t help but slightly smile at the question as Sonic puffs noticing his grin. “Are you going to laugh at me too?” He crosses his arms.

               “No I’m not laughing at you. This is where she is informed on who she will spy on.” He explained,

               “Oh, I think I get it…” Sonic said as the door opens, and Rouge walks in with Commander Towers behind her.

               “How you feeling Blue?” Rouge asked him with a smile,  

               “Better now that I’m not attached to a crazy robot that was sucking the life out of me.” Sonic chuckles noticing the twinge of guilt in Shadow’s eye. Commander Towers approaches staring at Sonic.

               “May I have a word?” He asked as Sonic looked at Shadow and Rouge confused.

               “He means have a talk Hun, in private.” Rouge said.

               “Yeah no… I’d prefer it if they stay. Sorry pal but I don’t know you and still a bit on edge.” Sonic said as Commander Towers nods glancing at Shadow annoyingly.

               “Agent Rouge has informed me that you were unknowingly imprisoned for the last year and woke up with Retrograde amnesia and are unaware of the previous crimes you committed.” Commander Towers said as Rouge and Shadow could see the dumbfounded look written all over Sonic’s face.

               “Wait… what crimes?” He looks over at Rouge,

               “Escaping from military confinement, theft of a Chaos Emerald in government custody, allying with Ivo Robotnik, aiding in the destruction of Prison Island, and attempting to destroy earth.” Commander Towers watches the Blue Hedgehog look at him horrified.

               “I’ll stop you there Towers.” Shadow snarled, “To your first accusation, He was contained by G.U.N. under the false pretenses that he was the Ultimate Lifeform. These were disproved by Rouge herself. So you had him imprisoned illegally.” He said as both Rouge and Sonic look at Shadow surprised,

               “Someone did their homework.” Rouge said impressed,

               “I’ve known how G.U.N. works for a long time and wasn’t going to willingly walk in here without ammo.” Shadow said confidently, “To your remaining accusations, you have recorded evidence that Professor Gerald Robotnik tampered with his memories and eye witness accounts including mine and Agent Rouge’s that the Professor made it impossible to fight the reprograming.”

               Shadow saw how Sonic was trying to hide how overwhelmed he felt as he reaches over placing a gentle hand on top of Sonics. “I can explain more in detail later, alright?” He asked. All Sonic could manage was a nod as Shadow turns back towards Towers, “All of these were already exonerated by the President for his noble sacrifice saving the world.”

               Rouge could tell Towers was annoyed, Shadow had completely toppled his opening argument without even raising his voice. She began to wonder if there was more to their past. “But please, do continue with how you were attempting to guilt him into agreeing to something.” She had to hold back a snort. She had no idea the Hero was full of such sass.   

               “Wait… were you trying to trick me?” Sonic asked as Towers now looked even more annoyed,

               “He was trying to employ you the same way he did me Hun.” Rouge said,

               “Agent…” Towers gives her a glare,

               “Cats out of the bag Commander, better to just come clean.” Rouge said as both Shadow and Sonic raise a confused eyebrow,

               “Employ? What does that mean?” Sonic asked,

               “You want him to work for you?” Shadow asked,

               “Correct,” Towers looks at Sonic, “As one of Gerald Robotnik’s experiments you have a connection to the Chaos Emeralds that could assist in our search for them to make sure they don’t fall into the wrong hands. Along with make sure to keep an eye on you,”

               “Keep an eye on me?” Sonic crosses his arms,

               “You will be targeted by those who want your power. Similar to how Metal Shadow came after you or Robotnik experimenting on you.” Towers said as Sonic’s ears droop. “We can keep tabs on you to make sure you are alright. Plus you’d have the opportunity to see the world and help a lot of people.”

               “It’s up to you Hun, Omega has already agreed to join only because they saw it as an opportunity to destroy more or Robotnik’s robots.” Rouge shakes her head.

               “Am I allowed to think about it?” Sonic asked,

               “Of course, Agent Rouge can give you her contact information and she can inform us of your decision.” Towers said turning around shooting Shadow a glare before leaving.

               “You certainly are full of surprises Shadow,” Rouge said sounding impressed, “You forced him to offer him a job instead of him trying to guilt him into joining.”

               “You’re not the only one skilled in espionage.” Shadow smirks. “For now let’s get out of here.” Shadow said looking at Sonic as he nods.

               The nurses discharge Sonic and the two are free to go as Rouge escorts them out of the base. Sonic wasn’t sure to ask, it seemed like Shadow knew a lot about him… “Did…” He finally summed up the courage to ask. “Did I really do all those bad things?” Sonic asked as both Shadow and Rouge give him a tender look,

               “Lets wait until we’re somewhere more private, Hun. This is a place that makes it their job to eavesdrop.” Rouge said as Sonic nods,

               “Rouge told me you want to get your memories back?” Shadow said,

               “Yeah,” Sonic said,

               “let’s head to my home.” Shadow said, “Prower and I have a teleporter we can use.”

               “A teleporter?” Sonic asked confused, as they exit the building. Before answering Shadow places a hand on both of their shoulders and teleports them as far away as he could before wearing himself out and is surprised that they got a decent distance to his home. He had forgotten how much Sonic amplifies his abilities.

               “C’mon,” Shadow said taking the lead as Rouge follows glancing back at Sonic who looked confused by the sudden change in scenery. “This is going to be a lot to process Hun… Are you positive you want to do this?”

               “Yes,” Sonic said without hesitation, “I need to know…” Sonic said as they enter Shadow’s house as Miles rushes up giving him a tight hug.

               “We were beginning to worry.” He said as Shadow pats his head,

               “We?” Shadow asked confused as Amy storms down the hallway hugging Shadow before he had a chance to react.

               “I’m so happy you’re okay!” Amy cheered as Knuckles pops his head out from the kitchen,

               “We were about to plan a rescue.” Knuckles joked as he sees Rouge, “What’s she doing here?”

               “Surprised to see you here too Red,” Rouge said, “Does this mean that precious gem of yours is free for the taking?”

               “Don’t even try it Bat, I have friends guarding it.” He snarls as she chuckles,

               “Rose… We discussed boundaries…” Shadow said as she quickly lets go,

               “I’m sorry I was just so worried I got carried away.” She looks over at Sonic, “And are you okay Sonic?” She asked as Sonic looked away surprised by the question.

               “Uh… Y…Yeah I’m good.” Sonic said as she goes up and hugs him,

               “Good, Cream and Big were worried.” She said letting go of the hug, “I promised to let them know you were okay, so I’ll see you all later.” She said waving to everyone before blowing Shadow a kiss as he flinches uncomfortably, and she leaves.

               “Poor girl has no idea.” Rouge shakes her head,

               “Idea about what?” Knuckles raises an eyebrow as she lets out a heavy sigh.

               “Miles could you get the teleporter ready? We’re going to need to get to the ARC.” Shadow said as he smiles happily at his brother,

               “On it!” He said rushing towards his workshop. Shadow looks over at Sonic who looked nervous.

               “Relax, Rouge and I will be there with you.” Shadow said gesturing him to follow. Sonic didn’t understand why Shadow’s reassuring voice calmed him so much.

               They enter the workshop as Miles turns on a large device with a glowing platform. “Give me two seconds.” Miles said typing away on his computer.

               “Isn’t this the one that was in Robotnik’s old base?” Rouge asked as Shadow smirks,

               “We may have snagged it before G.U.N. could get their hands on it.” Shadow said as Rouge laughs,

               “I’m seeing a new side of you and I am loving it.” She smiles,

               “Wait… don’t you work for them?” Sonic asked,

               “Keep your friends close but your enemies closer.” Rouge said, “I may have been a jewel thief that got caught and instead of having to rot in a cell I work for them in exchange for my freedom.” She explained.

               “So… do you think I should work with them?” Sonic asked as she lets out a hum.

               “I think we should discuss it after you know everything.” She said,

               “Transport is all good to go Shadow.” Miles said,

               “Thank you,” Shadow said stepping up onto the platform and offering Rouge a hand,

               “What a gentleman,” She said giving Sonic a wink. Shadow offers Sonic the same gesture looking him in the eye making sure there was no doubt in him about doing this.

               “You ready Hedgehog?” Shadow said as Sonic takes Shadow’s hand and he pulls him up onto the platform.

               “Let’s do this.”

Chapter Text

               The three of them are transported into the Space Colony ARC. Sonic’s eyes widen as he feels the familiarity of his surroundings. “Welcome Home Sonic.” Shadow said as Sonic steps off the platform.

               “So this is where I was created?” He asked,

               “This is where we were created.” Shadow said as Sonic turns back to him. 

               “Wait… We? As in…”

               “Designation: Project Shadow, the Ultimate Lifeform.” Shadow said, “I was created a little after you.”

               “Oh… well that explains the resemblance.” Sonic chuckles, “Does that make us brothers?” He asked though saying it out loud felt weird, that it didn’t sound right.

               “No, we were not created the same, you were solely created using Chaos energy. I started off similar however my DNA is contributed to… Something else…” Sonic could tell Shadow looked uncomfortable and decided not to press for more information about his creation.

               “Anything triggering any memories?” Rouge asked as Sonic shakes his head.

               “Let’s walk around, I think I know a place that might help.” Shadow asked heading towards the main control room.

               “So… Did I really do all those things that Towers guy said I did?” Sonic asked,

               “Yes.” Shadow said as Sonic lowers his head, “But everything I said was also true. G.U.N. had you imprisoned illegally for fifty years…”

               “FIFTY YEARS?” Sonic interrupted looking shocked, “I look pretty good for a middle aged man.”

               “You were cryogenically frozen in stasis, so you didn’t age.” Shadow said lightly chuckling to his joke.   

               “That makes sense.” Sonic said as they enter the control room. Sonic’s hit with a feeling of deja’vu as they entered. “I think I know this place…” Sonic said as they walk up to the center console that was deactivated.

               Shadow hovers his hand over it and it lights up and the entire room comes to life. “This is the central control system.” Shadow said,

               “Also where you and me had most of our meetings with Robotnik on how to proceed.” Rouge said as Sonic looks confused,

               “Wait, you worked with him too?” Sonic asked,

               “I was undercover. G.U.N ordered me to confirm if you were truly the Ultimate Lifeform.” Rouge explained,

               “But that’s you.” Sonic said as Shadow nods, before gesturing them to follow him.

               “Before you were imprisoned, this science facility cut its ties with the military since we no longer needed their money to sustain our energy source. It was actually thanks to you and the Chaos Drive that it was possible, and they were able to continue their research freely.” Shadow explained. Sonic softly smiles. It was nice to know his energy could be used for good.

               “However… the government didn’t take kindly to being removed from the equation. Demanding to have custody of myself and any other experiments that could be considered weapons. But Gerald refused.” Shadow said, 

               This time Sonic saw something, a flash of a man he’s seen once before in another vision, his appearance reminiscent of Eggman. That was his creator… so it wasn’t a lie that Eggman was his grandson…

               Rouge recognizes the room they were heading towards, “Are you sure we should jump in head first?” She asked,

               “I’m here if it is too much.” Shadow said,

               “What are you talking…” The door to the room opens. Sonic’s eyes widen as he’s flooded with a sense of familiarity. He looks around entering the room without another word. He knew what this room was… this was his room.

               His head throbbed; more memories flashed in his head but broken memories of times he was experimented on. He felt overwhelmed remembering the pain, fear, and helplessness he felt…

               “No… I don’t want to see this again…” Sonic grabs his head and closes his eyes. Shadow could feel his energy becoming unstable.

               “Rouge you may want to take a step back.” Shadow said approaching Sonic as sparks of energy started to come off him. The moment Shadow embraces him the sparks stop. “Easy, don’t fight the memories,” Shadow said calmly as Sonic’s body untenses.

               Shadow feels Sonic reach out returning the embrace, he needed to help him remember the good things. “Does the name Maria sound familiar?” He asked as Sonic shakes his head. “He was Gerald’s granddaughter. She had an auto immune disease making her easy to getting sick. So she lived up hear where it was safer for her. She would come and play with me when I wasn’t in testing. I assumed she did the same for you.”

               One of the memories flashes to a girl with blonde hair asking for him to come out of hiding. Then another of them sitting by the window looking at the stars. He remembers how kind and gentle she was. A relief from the constant tests.

               “What happened to her?” Sonic asked as Shadow lets out a sigh before tightening his hold of Sonic. He hated reliving this… but being here with Sonic gave him a small amount of comfort.

               “After we cut ties with the government they forcefully took over the ARC… In an attempt to save me Maria…” Shadow’s breath stopped, even after all this time her death still haunted him. “She didn’t make it…” He could feel Sonic’s energy increasing again but this time it was fueled by rage instead of fear.

               “That’s how I was locked away right? After they took over?” Sonic asked.

               “No… Like me, Gerald helped you escape… but your pod was recovered by GUN thinking it was me… My pod fell in a dense forest and I woke seven years before you did due to its stasis malfunctioning.” He explained.

               “So G.U.N took everything from us…” Sonic said, an anger to his words.

               “Not everything…” Shadow said loosening his grip and making eye contact with him. “We have each other. We are still alive and can keep our promise to Maria…”

               “Promise?” Sonic looked confused,

               “Maria asked me one last thing… Give them a chance to be happy…” Shadow said,

               “You’re glossing over something sweetie.” Rouge said, “The final project Gerald had planned the day they government shut this place down. The day you two were supposed to first meet.”

               “Right…” Shadow said as Sonic could feel him shift uncomfortably. “You were the first prototype as the Ultimate life form, but your abilities only manifested in your speed and ability to create your own chaos energy but if you don’t run enough the stored energy begins to harm you. I was created after using different methods and could still manipulate Chaos energy and create my own but at a severely lower pace.”  

               Shadow looks down at his inhibitor rings. “Another flaw was that I was leaking Chaos energy, but that was fixed by wearing the rings on my wrists,” Shadow noticed a change in Sonic’s demeanor, like there was a bit of recognition but unsure,

               “What was the name of the project?” Sonic asked,

               “Project: Super.” Rouge said. Sonic sees flashes of Rouge holding out the project in front of him with an image of him and Shadow next to one another.

               “I think you two would be a powerful force to be reckoned with.” He heard Gerald’s voice in his head.

               “We balance each other.” Sonic said as Shadow nods,

               “You complete each other.” Rouge teased quickly noticing the Hero’s face turn red as he glares at her.

               “Remember two can play at that game Rouge.” Shadow said as Sonic looks confused,

               “But why did I do all those bad things?” Sonic asked,

               “After Maria’s death… The professor went mad… He altered your memories and placed an order for you to carry out. One you couldn’t refuse even when you tried. He wanted the world to pay for what the government did to her. You broke free in the end and helped me stop his plans… but you sacrificed your life to save mine…”

               What?” Rouge said looking surprised, Shadow never told her this before.

               “After we used Chaos Control to put the ARC back into orbit that used the last of my reserves in Chaos energy and my Super form was fading…” Shadow said,

               “That’s why you were crying…” Sonic said as Shadow smiles at him. “I said you had to go back… and that I was glad that I met you.”

               “You used your remaining energy to warp me back to the Arc… and then you fell…” Shadow said,

               “That explains the memory loss.” Sonic chuckles, “That’s a pretty serious head injury to fall from space.”

               “Good to see you can make jokes about that.” Rouge shakes her head,

               “Did any other memories spark?” Shadow asked as Sonic shakes his head,

               “I had a few but there’s still a lot of blank spots… I just gotta let them come on their own or accept that they might never come back.” Sonic said letting out a sigh.

               “I can also teach you how to channel your Chaos energy into a weapon.” Shadow said.

               “I can use it as a weapon?” Sonic asked looking excited, Shadow chuckles as he lets go of Sonic.

               “Heads up boys, we gotta head back.” Rouge said looking up from her communicator,

               “Why, did something happen?” Shadow asked looking concerned,

               “The President wants to meet Blue.” She grins,

               “Who’s the president?” Sonic asked as they both let out a sigh with a smile as he lets out a huff. “Are you two always going to do that?”

               “You make it too easy Hun, you’re just too cute.” She winks as Sonic looks away flustered.

               “Let’s go, we don’t want to keep the president waiting.” Shadow said as they walk out of the room.

               Sonic takes one more glance at his dusty old room. To him, this was his goodbye to who he was and him walking towards who he wanted to be.  

               They arrive at the white house as they wait for the President to join them. Rouge watched as Sonic paced in the waiting room, “You’re stressing for no reason Blue.” Rouge said,

               “How can I not?” Sonic said still continuing to pace. The two of them explained how important the President was to the United Nation. To receive an invitation was considered a great honor.

               “Sit down hedgehog, you’re making me tired.” Shadow said with a sigh, he forgot with Sonic’s ever abundant energy and sometimes it was hard for him to keep up.

               Sonic sits next to him and takes Shadow’s hand unexpectedly. “So is the transfer of energy automatic or do I need to concentrate?”

               “It’s automatic but it can be amplified if either of us concentrate.” Shadow said avoiding the grin Rouge was giving him. “It will take some practice but eventually you’ll be able to materialize Chaos energy.” Shadow holds up his other hand as a small orb of green energy floats above it.

               Shadow stops concentrating on the energy hearing approaching footsteps as the door opens and they both stand up. “I apologize for making you wait so long.” A man wearing a blue suit enters with an entourage of men wearing dark suits and sunglasses flanking him. “It is good to see you again Shadow.” He said as Shadow lets go of Sonics hand and shakes the presidents hand.

               “It’s good to see you as well Mr. President.” Shadow smiles,

               “And you must be Sonic.” He said holding out his hand, Sonic follows Shadow’s gestures and shakes his hand, “Thank you for helping stop the newest crisis.” He smiles,

               “Heh… Glad I could help?” Sonic said glancing at Shadow and Rouge uncomfortably.

               “I wanted to give you my thanks and apologies about what you’ve been through this past year.” The President said,

               “Luckily, I don’t really remember it so nothing to worry about.” Sonic chuckles.

               “Commander Towers said that you’re considering joining G.U.N.” He said as Shadow holds back a growl. He’s using his connection to the president to try to convince Sonic to join them. “I think you’d be an asset to protecting our great nation.” He smiles,

               “Yeah I’m thinking about it, but I have a few conditions before I consider it.” Sonic said as Shadow turns to him surprised.

               “Oh? What type of conditions? I could assist in making them happen.” The President said. Rouge smirks, she could see what he was doing. That was familiar to the sneaky Hedgehog she remembered so fondly while they worked together on the ARC.

               “Well… I’d like to keep working with Rouge and Omega. We make a pretty good team.” Sonic said. “And I’d probably make sure I’m not forced to do anything I don’t want to.” Sonic said,

               “I’ll have one of my legal reps get with you to discuss your terms.” They said as Sonic smiles,

               “That sounds great since I don’t really know how the world works.” Sonic said,

               “Excellent! We’ll schedule something. I’m sorry to make this visit so quick but I’ve got a lot of meetings to get to. Thank you again for everything.” He said starting to leave. “It was lovely to see you Shadow, Agent Rouge.” He waves as he leaves with his guards and they are escorted out of the white house.

               “That was a sneaky trick.” Rouge grins,

               “Thought it would be a good idea.” Sonic chuckles,

               “Are you really considering working for them?” Shadow asked trying to hold back the distain in his voice.

               “Yeah, it’s like Rouge said. Keep your enemies close right?” Sonic said putting his hands behind his head. “Besides, if that means I can keep working with Rouge and Omega I don’t mind.”

               “You can’t be serious... Rouge doesn’t even trust them, and she works for them.” Shadow said, he didn’t want Sonic anywhere near G.U.N.

               “Exactly.” Sonic said as Shadow looks confused. “I’m not going to lie… a part of me hates them. For what they did to our home… to the Professor and Maria… And that’s why one of us has to.” Sonic looks at Shadow with a determination.

               “I get it now,” Rouge smiles, “You want to change it,” Sonic nods,

               “Like how you worked with Eggman to find out about the Ultimate Lifeform. I’ll be able to keep tabs on them. Make sure they’re not pulling any stunts like they did locking me up for fifty years.” Sonic smiles.

               “You really thought this through, Hun. I’m impressed.” She smiles patting his head. But Shadow still looked worried… He knew what Towers was capable of. He could lock Sonic up and throw away the key and make him disappear entirely like G.U.N did before.

               “We can fix G.U.N. from the inside. It’ll take a while, but I’ve definitely got time.” Sonic joked. “I think this is the best idea. It’ll give me a chance to learn how the world works and continue helping people.”

               “You can help people with me and Prower… You don’t need to be in G.U.N. to do that.” Shadow said.

               “What if they decide to come after you like they did me?” Sonic said looking more serious. “You and that Towers definitely have a history, and he looks like the kind of guy who’s just looking for an excuse to lock you up.” Shadow looks away, “With Rouge, Omega and me working together we’ll be able to keep an eye out for you.”

               “But if you work for Towers you have to follow his orders… What will you do if it’s something unethical?” Shadow asked,

               “Then I won’t do it. I’ll make sure before I tell them yes that if I ever think something is trying to be pushed under the table I go to you and the president.” Sonic said. Shadow couldn’t argue… Sonic had thoroughly thought this through in a small span of time.

               “Guess there’s no point arguing about it then,” Shadow said with a huff, “But I’d like you to be able to manipulate Chaos energy more before you give them an answer.”

               “I can live with that, on one condition.” Sonic said as Shadow looks confused. “We race.”

               “What?” Shadow asked,

               “Been wondering about this ever since I saw your shoes. I want to see who is faster.” Sonic smirks.

               “You boys have fun, let me know when you’re finished.” Rouge said before flying off leaving the two of them alone.

               “Very well Hedgehog, I accept your terms. What’s the finish line?” Shadow asked,

               “Uh…” Sonic pauses realizing he doesn’t know any land marks. Shadow chuckles at his contemplation as he steps closer to his blue counterpart.

               “An endurance race then?” Shadow said as Sonic grins. “Very well,” They both get in position to start their race. “When that light on the street ahead of us turns green we start.” Shadow points out as they both wait, watching the light and quickly taking glances at one another.

               The light turns green

               They both take off at full speed faster than any passerby’s could blink, weaving in and out of the streets dodging cars or running up buildings. They both fought to stay in the lead smiling and laughing as they ran. This was what Shadow wanted, more than anything. To have someone that matched him at everything but was still fundamentally different. Someone who challenged him and pushed him to be more than just a Hero.

               His equal.   

               After a few months of negotiating, a legal contract was created for Sonic to join G.U.N. His main stipulation was to be in a team formed of himself, Rouge the Bat and E-123 Omega now formally known as Team Dark. They had an open contract meaning if they were hired by other agencies at a higher price they were allowed to take the work. Any sort of legal or non-legal actions G.U.N attempts to convict them of would have to be approved by the president first before any arrests are made. And if these convictions are proven false a full investigation into the accusations will be done by a third party.

               Rouge couldn’t believe the lengths Sonic went through to ensure not only himself, but she and Omega were protected from G.U.N. She knew if he put his mind to it, Sonic would manage to truly fix G.U.N. from the inside and make it a better place. To make the world a better place.

               “Alright you two, our mission is to infiltrate this old base of Dr. Robotnik’s and see why it’s become operational all of a sudden.” Rouge said,

               “Yeah, yeah, we were at the briefing we know.” Sonic said stretching his legs as they were getting ready to exit the convoy.

               “I’m reminding you because this is a stealth mission. No destruction unless we’re made.” Rouge said,

               “WHAT IF ONE OF THE ROBOTS LOOKS AT ME FUNNY?” Omega asked raising up their hand.

               “How would they look at you if you are hidden?” Rouge asked back,

               “BY EXISTING.” Omega said as Sonic bursts out laughing. Rouge facepalms letting out a long groan.

               “Relax Rouge, we’re only messing with ya.” Sonic said,

               “I WAS BEING SERIOUS.” Omega said as Sonic starts to laugh again,

               “You two will be the death of me…” She lets out a sigh,

               “You all are ready for dispatch.” Their pilot said The three of them go quiet before giving each other a nod as the side door opens. They jump out falling down into the forest below.

               “Alright Team, Let’s do it to it!”

The End